The black-capped white-eye is a small passerine from the family Zosteropidae.
Region
Southeast Asia (Borneo and Sumatra)
Typical Environment
Found mainly in montane evergreen and mossy forests on Borneo and Sumatra, including forest edges and adjacent highland gardens. It frequents the mid-story and canopy, moving quickly through foliage in small groups. The species tolerates secondary growth and disturbed edges but is most abundant in intact high-elevation forest. It is a year-round resident within its upland range.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The black-capped white-eye is a small, lively passerine that forages in active flocks and often joins mixed-species parties in montane forests. Its bold white eye-ring and neat black cap make it easy to recognize. By taking nectar and soft fruits, it likely helps pollinate flowers and disperse seeds in high-elevation habitats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically travels in small, chattering flocks and often joins mixed-species foraging groups. Pairs build a small cup nest suspended from fine branches or shrubs. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties, and they may defend a small area around the nest during breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of twitters and tinkling trills, delivered in quick bursts. Soft contact calls keep flocks coordinated as they move through the canopy.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellow throat and vent, paler grayish-white underparts, and a neat black cap. Feathers are smooth and compact, giving a sleek appearance.
Diet
Takes small insects, caterpillars, and spiders gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes nectar from blossoms and soft fruits and berries. Occasionally makes short sallies to snatch aerial prey and will visit flowering trees when in bloom.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-story and canopy of montane forest, along edges, and in high-elevation gardens. Often follows flowering and fruiting shrubs and trees and joins mixed flocks to exploit patchy resources.
