The olive-colored white-eye, also known as the olive white-eye, Yap olive white-eye or great Yap white-eye, is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. The indigenous name in the Yapese language is "Alingithngith", which applies to both species of Zosterops found in Yap.
Region
Micronesia
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout the Yap Islands, using native forest, secondary woodland, scrub, coconut groves, and village gardens. It favors midstory to canopy levels where it gleans insects from leaves and probes flowers for nectar. The species tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and forest edges. It is generally absent from extensive mangroves and treeless areas but traverses open spaces between patches of trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Yap olive white-eye or great Yap white-eye, this species is confined to the Yap Islands in the western Pacific. In Yapese it is known as “Alingithngith.” It is an active canopy forager that takes insects, nectar, and small fruits, and often moves in small chattering flocks. Its adaptability to secondary growth and gardens helps it persist near human settlements.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small, noisy groups outside the breeding season, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Breeding pairs defend small territories and build a neat, cup-shaped nest suspended in foliage. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin warble interspersed with short trills and tinkling notes. Contact calls are sharp chips and soft, buzzy twitters given frequently while foraging.
