The Noronha Vireo (Vireo gracilirostris) is endemic to the small ocean
ic island of Fernando de Noronha off the easternmost tip of Brazil. Al
though derived from the Red-eyed Vireo (V. olivaceus) complex, the Nor
onha Vireo is differentiated strongly in coloration, plumage pattern,
and morphology and fully merits recognition as a distinct species. It
is a smaller bird with a much more rounded wing, longer, more slender
bill and a more elongated tail and tarsus. These appear to be speciali
zations for gleaning small insects from foliage, particularly the unde
rsides of leaves. The birds are abundant where appropriate habitat is
maintained. The few available data on reproductive and molt cycles, ne
sting, and vocalizations in V. gracilirostris are summarized.