10-13 cm (4-5") Uncommon. Central and southwestern United States, declining in southern California due to Cowbird brood parasitism. Willows, mesquite, thorny thickets, stream sides.
Tiny drab active bird. Plumage is highly variable over range. Grayish to olive-green above; white to pale yellow below. Light wing bars. Narrow light eye ring.
Variable plumage makes it difficult to identify but song is distinct for a vireo.
Song: fast warble "tweedle-deedle-dum? Tweedle-deedle-dee!"