The Bird of Brotherly Love

Philadelphia Vireo was named in 1851 by American ornithologist John Cassin, and a local name for the species in that city was once “Brotherly-love Vireo”.

For many birdwatchers Philadelphia Vireos are a treat to be found during migration. In spring, they are later migrants, appearing high in canopies largely in May. At migration hotspots such as Crane Creek, Ohio; Point Pelee, Ontario; or along the western Gulf Coast, recently arrived birds often feed lower in vegetation. Listen closely and search out any “funny-sounding” (slow-singing) vireo. In autumn, Philadelphias join mixed flocks and eat fruit at forest edges and second growth (just watch out for dull Red-eyed and bright Warbling Vireos).

The oldest recorded Philadelphia Vireo was at least 8 years, 10 months old when it was found in Guatemala in 1970. It had been banded in Ontario in 1962.