The Kolombangara white-eye or hermit white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to the Solomon Islands.
Region
Western Solomon Islands (New Georgia group)
Typical Environment
Occurs almost exclusively in upper montane and cloud forest on the slopes and summit region of Kolombangara’s volcano. It frequents dense, moss-laden forest with rich understory, vine tangles, and epiphyte-laden branches. Birds move from mid-story to canopy, occasionally using forest edges and stunted summit scrub. It may persist in lightly disturbed forest if structural complexity remains, but is largely absent from lowland or heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
700–1770 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Hermit White-eye, this species is confined to the highlands of Kolombangara Island in the Solomon Islands. It favors cool, mossy montane forests and is often seen moving quickly through the canopy in small parties. Like many white-eyes, it bears a distinctive bold white eye-ring. Its restricted range makes it sensitive to habitat disturbance and changes in forest quality.
Temperament
active and somewhat secretive in dense foliage
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulating hops between branches
Social Behavior
Usually travels in small groups or family parties and often joins mixed-species foraging flocks with other forest birds. Pairs are likely monogamous during the breeding season. Nests are neat cup structures suspended in forks of shrubs or small trees, where 1–3 eggs are laid. Territoriality centers around nest sites, with looser flocking away from breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, tinkling trills interspersed with soft chips and contact notes. Song is rapid and melodious but subdued, often delivered from within foliage and easiest to detect at dawn.
Plumage
Mostly olive-green above with a cleaner, paler grayish to whitish underpart and yellow-tinged throat and vent; smooth, compact plumage typical of white-eyes.
Diet
Takes small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Supplements this with small fruits and berries and occasionally nectar from flowering plants. Foraging is quick and methodical, often involving hanging or hovering briefly to reach hidden prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in mid-story to canopy within mature montane and cloud forest. Will also use edges and gaps where fruiting shrubs and epiphytes are abundant, especially near ridgelines and summit scrub.
