Verification of Unusual Sight Record
For Utah

Rec. # 2017-09


Common name:

Blue-headed Vireo

Scientific name: Vireo solitarius
Date: 09/11/2016
Time: 8:00 AM
Length of time observed: 2 minutes
Number: 1
Age:  adult
Sex: n/a
Location: Garr Ranch
County: Davis
Latilong:  
Elevation: 4,200'
Distance to bird: 20'
Optical equipment: 8x42 binoculars and 500mm lens
Weather: Sunny and clear
Light Conditions: Ideal morning light
Description:        Size of bird:  small passerine
(Description:)       Basic Shape:  "solitary" vireo shape
(Description:)  Overall Pattern: Gray/blue, yellow, and white
(Description:)            Bill Type:  Thick "vireo" type bill
(Description:)                              
Field Marks and
Identifying Characteristics:
Dark end of the Solitary Vireo spectrum, with a dark blue/"slate" colored head with an obvious demarcation on the cheek creating a stark contrast between the dark hood, and bright white throat.

Flanks were a vibrant yellow-green, while back was greenish. The yellow-green wash was apparent in the wings as well where the primary and covert edges showed the color nicely.
(see photo)
Song or call & method of delivery: None
Behavior: Foraging at mid-canopy
Habitat: Migrant Trap (deciduous trees)
Similar species and how
were they eliminated:
Cassin's Vireo aren't as vibrant, and typically even the darkest individuals hoods aren't this stark. The demarcation on the cheek was also too clean for the usually smudged/faded or blended cheek of a CAVI.
Previous experience with
this & similar species:
Have seen numerous times in the midwest and now 3 times in Utah.
References consulted: None
Description from: Notes made later
Observer:  Tim Avery
Observer's address: Sandy, Utah
Observer's e-mail address: **
Other observers who independently identified this bird:  
Date prepared: 01/31/2016
Additional material: Photo
Additional comments: Photo Here:
http://www.timaverybirding.com/photos/displayimage.php?album=lastup&cat=-557&pid=16045#top_display_media