Brown-capped Vireo

The Brown-capped Vireo, Vireo leucophrys, is a diminutive passerine, a member of the Vireonidae family. Adults measure between 12 and 12.7 cm in length and tip the scales at a mere 12 grams. They are characterized by olive-green upperparts and a distinctive brown crown. A brown line extends from the bill through the eyes, complemented by a striking white supercilium. The face and throat present an off-white hue, while the underparts are primarily yellow, with a touch of olive along the flanks. Juvenile birds exhibit a buff-brown coloration above and a less pronounced supercilium.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Brown-capped Vireo, look for the combination of its olive-green upperparts, brown crown, and the white supercilium contrasting with the brown eye line. The yellow underparts with olive flanks are also indicative of this species. The juveniles may be trickier to identify due to their more muted coloration.

Habitat

This species is found in the canopy and middle levels of light woodland, forest edges, and other semi-open habitats. It thrives at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2500 meters, where the air is crisp and the foliage is lush.

Distribution

The Brown-capped Vireo has a breeding range that extends from the highlands of southern Mexico down through to northwestern Bolivia, embracing a variety of montane environments along the spine of the Americas.

Behaviour

These vireos are active foragers, often seen gleaning caterpillars and other insects from tree foliage. They are also known to partake in small fruits. Notably sociable, they frequently join mixed-species feeding flocks, adding a communal aspect to their feeding habits.

Song & Calls

The Brown-capped Vireo's vocalizations include a sharp "twiist" call. Its song is a melodious and rich warble, reminiscent of the phrases "here you see me, hear me sing so sweet," evoking a sense of the bird's presence in its melodious habitat. This song bears a resemblance to that of the Warbling Vireo.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Brown-capped Vireo primarily consists of caterpillars and a variety of insects, which they skillfully glean from the foliage. They also supplement their diet with small fruits, demonstrating a flexible approach to their nutritional intake.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Brown-capped Vireo as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population levels that would warrant a higher degree of conservation action.