The Fiji white-eye is a species of passerine bird in the white-eye family Zosteropidae. The species is also known as Layard's white-eye.
Region
South Pacific
Typical Environment
The Fiji white-eye is found across forested parts of the larger Fijian islands, particularly Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, with occurrences in adjacent smaller islands where suitable habitat remains. It frequents native rainforest, secondary growth, forest edges, and wooded gardens. The species forages from understory to canopy, favoring shrubby edges and sunlit foliage. It tolerates moderate habitat alteration but is most common in well-vegetated areas with dense leaf cover.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as Layard's white-eye, this small passerine is endemic to Fiji and is easily recognized by its bright white eye-ring. It forages nimbly in foliage for insects and also takes nectar, making it a minor pollinator. It often joins mixed-species flocks in forest edges and secondary growth, which helps reduce predation risk while feeding.
Illustrated by Joseph Smit (1881)
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically moves in small, busy flocks and often joins mixed-species feeding parties. Pairs form during the breeding season and build small cup nests in shrubs or the lower canopy. They are attentive parents, sharing incubation and chick-feeding duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin trills and tinkling warbles delivered in short, lively phrases. Contact calls are sharp chips used to keep flock cohesion while foraging.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a yellowish throat and breast fading to grayish-white underparts; clean, crisp feathering around the face.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects, larvae, and spiders gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also takes nectar from blossoms and soft fruits when available. Occasionally hawks tiny insects in short sallies from perches.
Preferred Environment
Forages in forest edges, secondary woodland, and garden trees, often in the outer foliage where prey is abundant. Uses both understory shrubs and canopy leaves, moving quickly through dense vegetation.
