This is a large, colorful vireo and a strong, though slow-paced, singer. It moves sluggishly, which combined with its camouflaged coloration, can make it difficult to locate high in the leaves of the tall shade trees it favors. The yellow-throated often cocks its head as it surveys its surroundings or methodically searches for insects. Monotypic. Length 5.5".

The bright yellow spectacles, throat, and breast of this vireo are distinctive. Its wings are dark gray, with 2 bold, white wing bars. The crown and back are olive, rather bright, contrasting with a gray rump. Immature plumage is similar to that of the adult but paler yellow, sometimes with a slightly buffy throat.

Unlike other vireos, but compare with pine warbler, with which