The Abyssinian white-eye or white-breasted white-eye is a small passerine bird belonging to the genus Zosterops in the white-eye family Zosteropidae. It is native to north-east Africa and the Southwestern Arabian foothills savanna.
Region
Horn of Africa and southwestern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Found across Ethiopia and Eritrea into Djibouti and Somalia, with extensions into northern Kenya, and in the foothills of southwestern Arabia (Yemen and adjacent Saudi Arabia). It frequents dry savanna, thorny Acacia-Commiphora scrub, open woodland, and cultivated areas, including gardens and parks. The species adapts well to fragmented habitats and edges, often moving through bushes and low canopies. It is generally common where suitable shrub cover and flowering plants are present.
Altitude Range
400–3000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Abyssinian white-eye, also called the white-breasted white-eye, is a small, active songbird of dry savannas and montane foothills. It often travels in chattering flocks and readily joins mixed-species parties. Its bold white eye-ring is a hallmark of the white-eye family and makes it easy to pick out in acacia scrub and gardens. The species is widespread and adaptable, occurring in northeast Africa and the southwestern Arabian Peninsula.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often moves in small, vocal flocks and commonly joins mixed-species foraging parties. Pairs are typically monogamous during the breeding season and build small cup nests in shrubs or low trees. They are attentive parents, both sexes helping to feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of tinkling notes and twitters, delivered rapidly. Contact calls are soft, sibilant 'tsee' or 'tsip' sounds exchanged within the flock.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a clean white breast and belly, often with a yellowish throat and vent. Feathers are smooth and sleek, giving a neat appearance. A crisp, complete white eye-ring encircles the eye. Underparts look bright and contrast with the greener back and wings.
Diet
Takes small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and twigs. Also feeds on nectar from flowering shrubs and trees, especially when insects are scarce. Small fruits and berries are eaten regularly, making the species an effective seed disperser. It may hover briefly to pick prey or nectar from flowers.
Preferred Environment
Forages in acacia scrub, open woodland edges, gardens, and hedgerows. Typically uses the shrub layer to mid-canopy, moving methodically through leaves and blossoms. Readily exploits flowering ornamentals in towns and villages.
