The cream-throated white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to the northern Moluccas.
Region
Northern Moluccas
Typical Environment
Occurs on islands of the northern Moluccas, using lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, and secondary scrub. It frequents village gardens and plantations where flowering shrubs and fruiting trees are present. The species moves through understory to mid-canopy, often along edges, clearings, and regenerating habitats. It is typically most numerous in mosaic landscapes with patches of semi-natural vegetation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cream-throated white-eye is a small, active member of the Zosteropidae, restricted to the northern Moluccas of Indonesia. Like many white-eyes, it forages in flocks and often joins mixed-species parties, helping control insect populations. It adapts fairly well to secondary growth and forest edges, though extensive habitat loss can affect local numbers.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forages in small, chatty flocks and readily joins mixed-species feeding parties. Pairs likely form during the breeding season, constructing a small, neat cup nest suspended in shrubs or small trees. Territoriality is mild outside the immediate nesting area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, tinkling series of high-pitched notes and thin whistles, delivered in bursts while moving through foliage. Calls are sharp, contact-like chips that help flocks keep cohesion. The song can accelerate into a shimmering trill when excited.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler underparts and a distinct creamy throat set against a whitish to greyish breast. The classic bold white orbital ring encircles the eye. Undertail coverts often show a yellowish wash; plumage is smooth and slightly glossy on the mantle.
Diet
Feeds on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also takes nectar from flowering shrubs and trees, probing with its slender bill. Small berries and soft fruits are consumed seasonally, making it an opportunistic omnivore. It may occasionally sally short distances to snatch airborne prey.
Preferred Environment
Most often seen in forest edges, secondary growth, gardens, and plantations where flowering and fruiting plants are abundant. Foraging occurs from understory to mid-canopy, especially along sunlit edges and clearings.
