The Mbulu white-eye is a bird species in the family Zosteropidae. It is found in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.
Region
East African Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in the upland forests and forest edges of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania, including the Mbulu Highlands and nearby montane ranges. Prefers evergreen montane forest, secondary growth, and well-wooded gardens near forest margins. It forages from mid-storey to canopy but will descend to shrubby edges. The species is mainly sedentary within its elevational band, making local movements in search of food.
Altitude Range
1400–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Formerly treated as part of the Montane White-eye complex, the Mbulu white-eye is now recognized as a distinct species restricted to highlands of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. It often joins mixed-species flocks and is an active foliage gleaner. By visiting flowers and eating small fruits, it likely contributes to both pollination and seed dispersal in montane habitats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in small, chattering parties that may merge into larger flocks outside the breeding season. Often associates with other insectivorous birds in mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a small, neat cup nest suspended in shrubs or small trees; pairs are presumed monogamous during breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, fast, tinkling series of trills and twitters delivered in short bursts. Contact calls are thin, high-pitched seeps used to keep flock cohesion in dense foliage.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a clean whitish to pale gray belly, yellow throat and vent, and a conspicuous neat white eye-ring. Flanks may show a yellowish wash; wings and tail are dusky with greenish edging.
Diet
Feeds on small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also takes nectar from flowering shrubs and trees and consumes soft fruits and berries. Will sally short distances to snap small prey and probes into blossoms for nectar.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in mid to upper canopy of montane forest and along forest edges. Readily uses secondary growth, forest patches in farmland, and well-vegetated gardens near highland forests.
