Often heard but not seen,
the Bell's Vireo is often heard singing its repetitive, jumbled song from low
brushy thickets. They are unfortunately very common victims of Brown-headed
Cowbird parasitism, and are in decline in many regions.
Habitat: Prefers
low, bushy growth, including forest undergrowth, streamside thickets, woodland
edges, and brushy fields.
Diet: Primarily feeds on insects. They have a
preference for large insects such as caterpillars, wasps, and certain
beetles. They also will feed on spiders, and occasionally on berries.
Behavior: Climbs and flits through low foliage in
search of insects, sometimes catching flushed insects in mid-air, gleaning
them from foliage while hovering, or grabbing them while climbing through
the brush.
Nesting: June and July
Migration: Summer in the Great Plains, parts of the Midwest, and
parts of the Southwest. Winters in Mexico and southward.
Conservation Status: Populations in the southwestern U.S. are
generally stable, but Bell's Vireo are declining in the Midwest and southern
Plains, and are endangered in California.
2)
WhatBird - Bell's Vireo
3)
Audubon Guide - Bell's Vireo
Photo Information: July 29th, 2007 - Near
Oahe Dam by Pierre - Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution Bell's Vireo photos.