The Makira white-eye, also known as the grey-throated white-eye, is a small passerine bird in the white-eye family, Zosteropidae. It is also known as Zosterops ugiensis because Z. rendovae has often been used for the Solomons white-eye.
Region
Solomon Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and secondary tropical moist forests on Makira and Ugi, using both lowland and hill forests. It frequents forest edges, clearings with regrowth, and sometimes gardens and coconut groves near forest. Birds forage from understory to mid-canopy, gleaning foliage and probing flowers. They tolerate disturbed habitats if some tree cover and shrub layer remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Makira white-eye, also called the grey-throated white-eye, is a small, active member of the white-eye family confined to Makira and nearby Ugi in the Solomon Islands. Its taxonomy has been muddled historically, with some authors using Zosterops rendovae for the Solomons white-eye and applying Z. ugiensis to this Makira/Ugi form. It often travels in small, chattering flocks and joins mixed-species feeding parties. By taking nectar and small fruits, it likely contributes to pollination and seed dispersal.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically moves in small, cohesive flocks and often joins mixed-species foraging groups in the forest. Pairs form during breeding, constructing a neat cup nest in shrubs or small trees. They are attentive parents, with both sexes likely participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of tinkling trills and rapid twittering notes, delivered frequently as birds forage. Contact calls are soft, buzzy chips that help maintain flock cohesion.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a grey throat and breast blending to paler grey or whitish belly and yellowish undertail. Prominent white orbital eye-ring contrasts with dusky lores and darker face. Feathers are smooth and compact, giving a neat, sleek appearance.
Diet
Takes small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes soft fruits and berries and sips nectar from flowering shrubs and trees. Foraging is agile and methodical, with frequent short hops and brief hover-gleaning.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in forest understory to mid-canopy, along edges, and in secondary growth. It readily uses flowering and fruiting trees near forest margins and may visit village gardens with suitable cover.
