The Bismarck white-eye or black-headed white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to the Bismarck Archipelago in Papua New Guinea, where it occurs in New Britain, New Ireland and a number of smaller islands. It is sometimes considered to be the same species as the black-fronted white-eye of the mainland of New Guinea. The species is found in forests, forest edges, secondary forest, gardens and plantations, generally in hill and mountain areas and more rarely down to sea level.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago (Melanesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs on New Britain, New Ireland, and nearby smaller islands. Inhabits hill and montane forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, and readily ventures into gardens and plantations. It typically favors mid- to upper-canopy strata but will descend to shrubs and understory when feeding. The species is generally common where suitable habitat remains and is less frequent in extensive lowland coastal areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the black-headed white-eye, this species is restricted to the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea. It forages in small, active flocks and often joins mixed-species parties at forest edges and in gardens. It has sometimes been treated as conspecific with the black-fronted white-eye of mainland New Guinea. Its adaptability to secondary habitats and plantations helps keep it common in much of its range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually travels in small, chattering flocks and often joins mixed-species foraging groups. Pairs form during the breeding season and build small cup nests in shrubs or trees. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of twitters and rapid trills interspersed with soft buzzes. Contact calls are sharp, sibilant notes used constantly while flocking.
Plumage
Compact white-eye with a contrasting dark head, olive-green upperparts, and yellow-tinged underparts. The throat and vent are yellowish, and the classic white eye-ring is present but set against the darker face. Wings and tail are dusky with greenish edging.
Diet
Feeds on small insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage, as well as nectar and soft fruits. It probes flowers and foliage, occasionally sallying short distances to snatch prey. Seasonal availability of fruits and blossoms influences its local movements and flocking behavior.
Preferred Environment
Forages in forest edges, secondary growth, gardens, and plantations, especially where flowering trees and fruiting shrubs are abundant. Uses mid- to upper-canopy but also visits understory blooms and hedgerows.
