The black-fronted 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. The black-fronted white-eye was formerly considered a subspecies of the green-fronted white-eye, and until it was split as a distinct species, the name "black-fronted white-eye" was also used for Z. minor.
Region
Wallacea (Sulawesi and surrounding islands)
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits lowland and hill forests on Sulawesi and nearby islands, including forest edges and secondary growth. It adapts well to disturbed habitats, using plantations, gardens, and village groves where flowering trees are present. Typically forages in the mid-story to canopy, moving quickly through foliage. It also frequents coastal scrub and mixed agroforestry mosaics when suitable cover and nectar sources are available.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Despite its tiny size, this white-eye is a busy canopy gleaner that often joins mixed-species flocks. Its bold white eye-ring and contrasting dark forehead inspire the common name. The species has a complex taxonomic history and was long lumped with the Green-fronted White-eye before being split. White-eyes are renowned for rapid diversification across island archipelagos, producing many localized endemics.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in small, chattering flocks outside the breeding season and often joins mixed-species feeding parties. During breeding, forms monogamous pairs that build a small, neat cup nest suspended in shrubs or trees. Both parents partake in incubation and feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, tinkling series of thin notes and twittering warbles, delivered in short bursts. Contact calls are soft, sibilant tsit or tsee given frequently as birds move through foliage. The song can accelerate into a rapid, melodious chatter during social interactions.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a yellowish throat and breast, paler grayish-white belly, and a crisp white eye-ring. The forehead is distinctly black, contrasting with the face and crown; lores can appear dusky. Feathers are sleek and close, giving a smooth, neat appearance.
Diet
Takes small arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs, including caterpillars and beetles. Also feeds on soft fruits and berries and regularly sips nectar from blossoms. Occasionally hawks tiny insects in short sallies. Its nectar feeding may contribute to pollination of local flowering plants.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy of forests, edges, and secondary growth. Readily visits flowering trees in gardens, plantations, and village areas. Often exploits fruiting shrubs and trees along forest margins.
