The black-crowned white-eye is a songbird species. It is closely related to the Old World babblers, and its family Zosteropidae might better be included in the Tiimalidae. Its subspecies from the Sulawesi region might warrant recognition as distinct species Z. subatrifrons. The Sangihe white-eye and the Seram white-eye were formerly included in Z. atrifrons, as is still, on occasion, the black-fronted white-eye.
Region
Sulawesi and surrounding islands (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and secondary tropical forests, forest edges, and montane scrub across Sulawesi and nearby islands. It also uses gardens and plantations near forested areas, especially where flowering plants and fruiting shrubs are available. Birds forage from understory to canopy but favor mid- to upper-level foliage. They commonly move in small, active flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species parties.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small white-eye is native to the Sulawesi region of Indonesia and shows a distinctive white eye-ring with a contrasting black crown. Several island subspecies exist, and some Sulawesi forms (e.g., Z. subatrifrons) have been proposed for elevation to full species. It often travels in lively flocks and readily joins mixed-species foraging parties. Its adaptability to forest edges and secondary growth helps keep its populations stable.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in small flocks that move quickly through foliage, often joining mixed-species flocks. Pairs form during the breeding season and build small cup nests suspended in shrubs or small trees. Both parents participate in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin warble interspersed with rapid tsee-tsee elements. Calls are sharp and sibilant contact notes used to keep flock cohesion. Song can accelerate into short trills during display.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler greyish-white underparts and yellowish throat highlights; distinct, neat white orbital ring. The crown and forecrown are black, contrasting with the face and eye-ring. Flanks may show a light olive or yellow wash.
Diet
Consumes small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also takes soft fruits and berries and frequently laps nectar from blossoms. Opportunistic feeding allows it to shift among resources as they become seasonally abundant.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in mid- to upper-level foliage at forest edges, secondary growth, and gardens with flowering shrubs. Often forages in mixed flocks, moving rapidly between trees and across canopy gaps.
