The Kafa white-eye is a small passerine bird in the white-eye family, Zosteropidae. It is found in west and southwest Ethiopia as well as on Mount Kulal in north Kenya. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of Ethiopian white-eye.
Region
East African Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in west and southwest Ethiopia, particularly in the Kafa region and adjacent highland forests. An additional disjunct population is found on Mount Kulal in northern Kenya. It favors moist montane forest, forest edge, bamboo and Erica scrub, and can venture into gardens and secondary growth. Birds typically forage in the mid-story and canopy, moving actively through foliage.
Altitude Range
1500–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Recently recognized as distinct from the Ethiopian white-eye based on differences in voice, plumage, and genetics. It inhabits isolated highland forests where white-eyes often diversify rapidly. Like many white-eyes, it can act as a local pollinator while also controlling small insect populations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements between shrubs and canopy
Social Behavior
Usually found in small, chatty flocks and often joins mixed-species foraging parties. Pairs form during the breeding season, building a small, neat cup nest suspended in shrubs or small trees. Both parents typically participate in rearing the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin twitters and rapid trills, delivered in short, lively phrases. Contact calls are soft, metallic chips used to keep flocks coordinated.
