Kirk's white-eye

Kirk's white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to the Comoros Islands. It was previously considered a subspecies of the Malagasy white-eye. Its common and binomial name are in honour of explorer John Kirk.

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Distribution

Region

Western Indian Ocean (Comoros Archipelago)

Typical Environment

Found across lowland to montane habitats on the Comoros islands where it favors forest edges, secondary growth, thickets, and cultivated areas. It readily occupies gardens and plantations, often moving through mixed vegetation and scrub. The species forages from shrub layer to mid-canopy, gleaning leaves and probing flowers. It avoids only the densest unbroken forest and very open, treeless areas.

Altitude Range

0–1800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size10–12 cm

Wing Span15–18 cm

Male Weight0.009 kg

Female Weight0.009 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Kirk's white-eye is a small passerine in the family Zosteropidae, endemic to the Comoros. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the Malagasy white-eye but is now recognized as a distinct species. The name honors the explorer John Kirk. It adapts well to human-altered habitats, often visiting gardens and plantations where it helps control insects.

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Often travels in small, chattering flocks outside the breeding season and may join mixed-species foraging groups. During breeding it forms territorial pairs that build a small, neat cup nest suspended in shrubs or trees. Clutches are typically two to three eggs, with both parents participating in care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A high, thin series of twitters and trills delivered in rapid sequences. Calls include soft contact notes used to keep flocks together and sharper chips when alarmed.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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