The Gizo white-eye or yellow-billed white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Gizo Island, where it inhabits lowland and foothill forests, secondary growth, forest edges, and village gardens close to native vegetation. It uses the midstory and canopy, moving rapidly through foliage while foraging. The species tolerates some disturbance but declines where forest is heavily cleared. Predation and nest failure can increase near settlements due to invasive rats and cats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the yellow-billed white-eye, this species is confined to tiny Gizo Island in the Solomon Islands. Its striking white eye-ring and bright yellow bill set it apart from other local white-eyes. Because it occupies such a small range, it is highly vulnerable to habitat loss and invasive predators. Conservation actions focus on protecting remaining forest and controlling rats and cats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually travels in small, chattering groups and may join mixed-species foraging flocks. During the breeding season, pairs defend small nesting areas while still foraging loosely with neighbors. The nest is a small, neat cup suspended in shrubs or trees, with both adults sharing incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin tinkling notes interspersed with soft trills and rapid twitters. Calls are contact-oriented and constant while foraging, with a slightly more musical, warbling phrase during courtship.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellow-tinged throat and vent, and paler grayish-white underparts. Feathers are smooth and close-fitting, giving a sleek appearance typical of white-eyes.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects, larvae, and spiders gleaned from leaves and twigs. It also takes nectar from flowering shrubs and trees and consumes soft fruits and berries. Foraging is nimble and continuous, often hanging briefly to probe leaf clusters.
Preferred Environment
Most often feeds in the midstory and canopy at forest edge, in secondary regrowth, and in gardens with native trees. It favors flowering and fruiting plants, moving along hedgerows and forest margins.
