Chronicles of a Birders Life List

Over the past 40 years I have had the good fortune to photographically document 85% of the bird species added to my “Life List.” This blog series showcases the images and anecdotal accounts that document those “Lifer” sightings and a little about the environment and culture of the area. This Lifer blog series begins with the first LIFER outside of the US, Lifer #624 and proceeds chronologically forward from there.

A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain

Cozumel Vireo (Vireo bairdi) > Vireonidae > Passeriformes

IDENTIFICATION: Only on Cozumel Island, Mexico, where no similar species occur. Uncommon; has declined thanks to predation by non-native boa constrictor snakes released on the island. Occurs in scrubby woodland, overgrown fields and thickets. Usually sluggish, like most vireos, and easily overlooked. Readily identified by its ‘cute’ face with a white patch between the eyes and bill; white wingbars; and unique, pinkish-tawny plumage tones. Voice similar to Mangrove Vireo of the mainland.

CONSERVATION STATUS WARNING: The IUCN considers Cozumel Vireo to be in the Near Threatened Red List Category. The species has a very small range, however it is uncertain whether it is being affected by habitat loss. It is therefore listed as Near Threatened.

FIRST “LIFER” OBSERVATION:
Birding with: Miguel Amar Uribe from Mexico Kan Tours and my wife Maria
Date: 10 Dec 2021 @ El Cedral, Cozumel Island, MX
El Cedral (Pueblo) | MX-ROO

SPECIES GLOBAL eBIRD DISTRIBUTION MAP
Yellow Star indications the location of my Lifer sighting

DETAILS ABOUT SIGHTING: Miguel Amar Uribe and our driver Raymundo Martinez both got on this bird right after we had walked away from the hummingbird feeder house in El Cedral. I was only able to get a couple of quick shots of it, but it was pretty distinctive with its brownish/tan coloring.

PHOTOS TAKEN: All images are of the same Lifer bird @ El Cedral, Cozumel Island, MX

Previous 3 posts in my LIFER Blog Series.

• 
  Lifer 684 – Yucatan Flycatcher
  by Jim Gain
  February 20, 2024
• 
  Lifer 683 – Lesson’s Motmot
  by Jim Gain
  February 19, 2024
• 
  Lifer 680 – Squirrel Cuckoo
  by Jim Gain
  February 18, 2024