The Meratus white-eye is a species of bird in the white-eye family, Zosteropidae. The species was described in 2021 by the Indonesian ornithologist Mohammed Irham and his colleagues based on genetic, morphological, and vocal differences from other Zosterops white-eyes. It is endemic to the Meratus Mountains of Indonesian Borneo, where it has been observed on Mount Besar and Mount Karokangen. It inhabits the mid and lower storeys of closed-canopy montane forests at elevations between 1,300 and 1,650 m. It is a typical Zosterops white-eye, with deep olive-green upperparts, yellower underparts, a yellow stripe across the lores, and a distinctive bicoloured bill. Adults have a length of around 11–12 cm (4.3–4.7 in) and a mass of 8.5–9.5 g (0.30–0.34 oz). Both sexes look alike.
Region
Borneo (Indonesian Kalimantan)
Typical Environment
It is confined to closed-canopy montane forests of the Meratus range, especially on Mount Besar and Mount Karokangen. The species uses the mid and lower storeys, moving through vine tangles, saplings, and dense foliage while foraging. It may edge into slightly disturbed forest and along ridgelines where fruiting shrubs are present but remains tied to mature, shaded habitats. Seasonal upslope or downslope movements are minimal within its narrow elevational band.
Altitude Range
1300–1650 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Described in 2021 based on genetic, morphological, and vocal evidence, the Meratus white-eye is confined to the Meratus Mountains of Indonesian Borneo. It forages in the mid to lower forest strata and often joins mixed-species flocks. A yellow lore stripe and a bicolored bill help separate it from other Bornean white-eyes. Its restricted range makes it potentially sensitive to habitat loss, though its conservation status remains formally unassessed.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in small, restless flocks that may join mixed-species parties with other insectivores. Pairs likely build compact cup nests in shrubs or small trees within the mid-storey. Outside the breeding period, groups roam locally in search of flowering and fruiting resources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of twitters and trills interspersed with soft chips. The song is fast, bright, and slightly sibilant, carrying through dense foliage without being loud.
