Yellow-throated Vireo
Learn to identify the Yellow-throated Vireo by ear. Master the "three-A, three-A, three-A-dee" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.
What the Yellow-throated Vireo sounds like
A series of slow, burry, up-and-down phrases, each consisting of two to three slurred notes delivered at a deliberate pace, reminiscent of a Red-eyed Vireo but lower-pitched and huskier.
How to tell it apart
Lessons featuring the Yellow-throated Vireo
Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Yellow-throated Vireo's sounds in this interactive in-app lesson.
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Where you'll hear it
Breeds across eastern North America from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast. Winters in southern Mexico, Central America, and across the Caribbean to northern South America.
Mature deciduous or mixed woodlands with large, leafy trees; favors forest edges, riverside groves, and well-spaced trees in parks and large yards.
Arrives on breeding grounds from late April through May; peak vocal activity in June; begins southbound migration in August and most birds have departed by late September.
How to recognize it by sight
The Yellow-throated Vireo is a sturdy vireo with an olive-green head and back, bright yellow spectacles and throat, and a clean white belly.
Similar species
Pine Warbler
Warbler slimmer with finer bill
Blue-headed Vireo
Head slate-blue, throat white not yellow
Philadelphia Vireo
Smaller and more delicate bill