The Ethiopian white-eye, formerly known as Heuglin's white-eye or montane white-eye, is a small passerine bird in the white-eye family Zosteropidae. It is found in southeast Sudan, Eritrea and north, central and east Ethiopia. Its natural habitats range from subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, to subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland, plantations, and rural gardens.
Region
Horn of Africa Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in the highlands of north, central and east Ethiopia, extending into Eritrea and the southeast of South Sudan. It frequents moist montane evergreen forest, forest edges, and secondary growth. The species readily uses high-altitude shrubland, Hagenia–Juniperus woodlands, and Erica zones. It also visits coffee plantations, orchards, and rural gardens where native trees persist.
Altitude Range
1600–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Like other white-eyes, it has a conspicuous white orbital ring that gives the group its name. Ethiopian white-eyes often join mixed-species flocks and can be important pollinators as they visit flowers for nectar. They adapt readily to gardens and plantations in the highlands. Their name poliogastrus refers to the greyish belly typical of this complex.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in chattering flocks that move quickly through foliage, and often associates with other small insectivores in mixed-species parties. Breeding pairs weave a small cup nest suspended in shrubs or small trees. Breeding generally aligns with rainy periods; both adults participate in nest care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, high-pitched series of twitters, trills and thin warbles given in brief bursts. Contact calls are sharp tsee or tzip notes used to keep flocks together.
