Blue-headed Vireo
Learn to identify the Blue-headed Vireo by ear. Master the "see? you—all; hear—me? too" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.
What the Blue-headed Vireo sounds like
The Blue-headed Vireo is a stocky, thick-billed songbird whose cool blue-gray head and bold white "spectacles" set it apart from other small woodland birds. Olive-green upperparts, clean white underparts washed with pale yellow on the flanks, and slow, deliberate movements give it a distinctive, thoughtful appearance as it methodically inspects leaves and twigs for prey.
“see? you—all; hear—me? too”
How to tell it apart
Lessons featuring the Blue-headed Vireo
Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Blue-headed Vireo's sounds in this interactive in-app lesson.
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Where you'll hear it
Breeds in mature mixed conifer–deciduous forests—particularly hemlock, spruce, fir, and yellow birch—often favoring shaded ravines and forest edges. During migration and on the wintering grounds it occurs in a wider array of wooded habitats, including pine savannas, hammocks, scrub, and shady second-growth.
Migratory: arrives on northern breeding territories from late April to May; southbound migration peaks September–October; winters November–March.
Similar species
Cassin’s Vireo
Cassin’s shows grayer back with less olive contrast
Philadelphia Vireo
No white spectacles—only faint eyering
Red-eyed Vireo (juvenile)
Lacks spectacles; face plainer except dark eyeline