Bell’s Vireo in Milwaukee County, 5/31/25

Jeremy7 Comments

A Bell’s Vireo was found along the Root River Pkwy in Franklin. It was seen at the base of the ski hill, right by the lift. There is a small circular hedge area that was perfect habitat for it. When I arrived, it was not singing, and I could not find it. I walked around the entire area and along the river without luck. After about 45 minutes or so, it started singing nonstop for over an hour, moving around the hedge area. I was able to find it quickly after that and had some real nice looks at him. It appeared he had issues with feathers on his forehead. I’m not sure if he was just molting or something happened, like maybe an attack from a predator or what. Everything else seemed to be fine with him. A very pretty bird, with a beautiful song. This was a lifer and state bird #345 for me! It was also very nice to get as a county bird and only 7 minutes from my house. Photos below are from Saturday morning on 5/31. Enjoy!

White-eyed Vireo at Warnimont Park

Jeremy2 Comments

I saw the White-eyed Vireo (WEVI) at Lake Park on 4/30, but I was unable to get photos of it, as it moved so fast through the thick cover of the ravine, and then out of sight. I never relocated it that day, but there were 2 other rare birds as well that I spent time photographing. On Wednesday 5/1, another WEVI was found singing at Warnimont Park. I finally had a chance to try for it this morning (5/5). It was a little north of the original location, in the grassy shrub area, on the northside of the path. It has been seen or heard every day since 5/1 and seems to be on territory now. I watched it move about the trees in a 150′ radius or so, constantly singing. I hope he sticks around all summer. Even better, he finds a mate! Lately, I have been seeing these birds almost every spring, which is great, because they are so unique, with that striking white eye! Photos below are from early this morning (5/5). Enjoy!

White-eyed Vireo at Warnimont Park Golf Course

Jeremy4 Comments

I found a White-eyed Vireo in a group of pine trees between the 8th and 9th holes along Lake Dr. The rare birds just continue to be found at this park, so far this year! I usually do pretty good with this species in Milwaukee County each year, but it was totally unexpected today. I only saw it for a minute or so and it was gone. I had a very good morning walking the entire golf course. I proceeded to walk south to the center grassy area of the park and then loop back to the north. I ended up 94 species and 19 warblers for the morning. New warblers for the year included Black-throated Blue, Golden-winged, Blue-winged, Blackburnian, Magnolia and American Redstart. The Western Kingbird was also still being seen by the archery range. However, it was mostly way up at the treetops when I left. Photos of the vireo are from this morning. Enjoy!