Buru white-eye

The Buru white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to Indonesian islands, including the island of Buru which gives its name. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. The species occupy an area of larger than 20,000 km2 and is thought to have a stable population of above 10,000, and thus are not considered as threatened.

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Distribution

Region

Maluku Islands

Typical Environment

Occurs on Buru Island in Indonesia, occupying subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and sometimes well-vegetated gardens near forest. Most foraging takes place in the mid to upper canopy, but it will also descend to fruiting shrubs. The species tolerates moderate habitat disturbance where native vegetation persists.

Altitude Range

0–2000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size10–12 cm

Wing Span16–18 cm

Male Weight0.01 kg

Female Weight0.009 kg

Life Expectancy7 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

The Buru white-eye is a small forest songbird known for its bold white eye-ring and lively, social behavior. It forages actively in the mid to upper canopy, often joining mixed-species flocks. While common within suitable habitat on Buru, it can be sensitive to extensive forest clearance. Its flexible diet of insects, nectar, and fruits helps it persist in lightly disturbed areas.

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Typically forms small, chattering flocks and often joins mixed-species foraging parties. Breeding pairs build a small cup nest suspended from fine branches or foliage. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties. Territory defense is moderate around the nest.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song consists of thin, high-pitched twitters and rapid, musical chirps delivered in short bursts. Calls are sharp contact notes used to keep flock cohesion. Vocalizations can become more persistent at dawn and during breeding.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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