Scarlet Macaw vs Red-eyed Vireo

In short

The Scarlet Macaw and the Red-eyed Vireo are vastly different in size and appearance, making them easy to distinguish in the field. The Scarlet Macaw is a large, colorful parrot, while the Red-eyed Vireo is a small, drab songbird.

Identification tips

1. Size: Look for the large size and long tail of the Scarlet Macaw versus the small, compact Red-eyed Vireo. 2. Color: Note the bright red, blue, and yellow of the macaw compared to the olive and white of the vireo. 3. Eye Color: The vireo has a distinctive red eye, which is a key field mark. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; macaws are in tropical areas, while vireos are in temperate forests. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the macaw's squawks versus the vireo's song.

Size

The Scarlet Macaw is significantly larger, measuring about 81 cm (32 inches) in length, compared to the Red-eyed Vireo, which is about 13 cm (5 inches) long.

Plumage

The Scarlet Macaw is predominantly bright red with blue and yellow wings, while the Red-eyed Vireo has olive-green upperparts, white underparts, and a distinct red eye. The vireo also has a white supercilium bordered by dark lines.

Behaviour

Scarlet Macaws are often seen in pairs or small groups, engaging in loud calls and acrobatics. Red-eyed Vireos are solitary or in loose flocks, foraging methodically through foliage for insects.

Habitat

Scarlet Macaws inhabit tropical rainforests and open woodlands, often near water. Red-eyed Vireos prefer deciduous and mixed forests, especially during migration and breeding seasons.

Voice

Scarlet Macaws produce loud, harsh squawks, while Red-eyed Vireos have a repetitive, melodious song that sounds like a series of questions and answers.