The dark-eyed white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is found in the Solomon Islands. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including secondary growth and forest edges. It forages from the understory to the mid-canopy, moving quickly among foliage. In some localities it also uses gardens and plantations adjacent to forest. Island endemics typically have patchy distributions restricted to one or a few islands within the archipelago.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Dark-eyed white-eyes are small passerines of the family Zosteropidae, noted for their conspicuous white orbital ring and active, flocking behavior. Many white-eyes in the Solomon Islands have evolved as island endemics, showing rapid diversification across nearby islands. They often join mixed-species foraging flocks and can assist in pollination and seed dispersal. As island birds, they may be sensitive to habitat loss and invasive predators.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in small, chattering flocks outside the breeding season and often associates with other small insectivores. During breeding it forms monogamous pairs that defend small territories. Nests are small, neat cups suspended in shrubs or small trees, with both parents tending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid series of thin, high-pitched twitters and trills, interspersed with soft contact calls. The song is lively but subdued, often delivered from cover while foraging.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler grayish to whitish underparts and a neat, contrasting white eye-ring. The throat and vent may show a yellowish wash, with fine, clean feathering around the face. Wings and tail are slightly darker olive with subtle edging.
Diet
Takes small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes nectar from flowering plants and soft fruits, especially when insect prey is less abundant. Foraging is active and methodical, often hanging briefly to pick items from the underside of foliage.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, gaps, and mid-story foliage where insect prey and flowers are plentiful. Readily uses secondary growth and sometimes cultivated areas adjacent to native forest.
