The Karthala white-eye, also known as the Mount Karthala white-eye, Grand Comore white-eye, or Comoro white-eye, is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. As suggested by its name, it is endemic to Philippia heath woodland growing on Mount Karthala on the island of Grand Comore in the Comoros. Mount Karthala is an active volcano and future eruptions pose a serious threat to the Karthala white-eye. The bird is further threatened by human-induced habitat loss.
Region
Western Indian Ocean (Comoros Archipelago)
Typical Environment
Occurs almost exclusively in Philippia heath and adjacent high-montane shrublands near the summit caldera of Mount Karthala. It favors dense, low shrub tangles and edges of stunted montane forest where flowers and small fruits are available. The species is highly localized, with movements largely constrained to the volcano’s upper slopes. Habitat can be periodically altered by volcanic activity, fires, and human encroachment. Outside this narrow belt it is rarely recorded.
Altitude Range
1500–2360 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny white-eye is confined to the ericaceous heath around the summit of Mount Karthala on Grand Comore. Its entire range sits on an active volcano, so eruptions and associated habitat changes pose an exceptional risk. It forages nimbly through shrubs and often joins mixed-species flocks. Conservation of the high-montane heath is critical to its long-term survival.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements
Social Behavior
Often forages in small, chattering parties and frequently joins mixed-species flocks in montane shrubs. Breeding pairs likely defend small territories within dense heath, building a small cup nest low in vegetation. Clutch size is typically small, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, fast series of thin twitters and trills, delivered in short bursts from within shrubs. Contact calls are sharp, sibilant tseep notes that keep flock members coordinated.
