The Orange River white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae, which is native to Namibia and South Africa. It was formerly deemed conspecific with the Cape white-eye, but the two species occur sympatrically in central South Africa, and they are genetically distinct.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly along the Orange River basin and adjacent arid and semi-arid zones of Namibia and South Africa, extending through riparian thickets, Acacia savanna, and dry scrub. It frequents riverine woodland, karoo shrubland, and orchards or gardens where water and flowering plants are available. The species adapts well to human-modified habitats with native shrubs and nectar sources. It is generally sedentary, making local movements following food availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small white-eye of arid southern Africa, it was long treated as conspecific with the Cape white-eye but is now recognized as genetically distinct, and the two occur together in parts of central South Africa. It readily visits flowering shrubs and gardens, acting as a pollinator while also gleaning small insects. The bright white eye-ring is a hallmark, standing out on its otherwise pale, grey-olive plumage.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in small, chattering flocks and frequently joins mixed-species foraging parties. Breeding pairs build a small, neat cup nest suspended in a shrub or low tree. They are generally monogamous during the breeding season and defend a small nesting territory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, tinkling series of twitters and high-pitched notes, delivered rapidly. Contact calls are soft chips and whistles used to keep flocks together.
Plumage
Pale grey-olive upperparts with lighter greyish-white underparts and a subtle yellow wash on the throat and vent. Feathers are smooth and neat, giving a clean, uniform appearance compared with the brighter Cape white-eye.
Diet
Takes small insects, spiders, and other arthropods by gleaning foliage and probing crevices. Also consumes nectar from native flowers and cultivated plants, and pecks at soft fruits and berries. It may act as a pollinator while feeding on nectar.
Preferred Environment
Forages in riparian thickets, acacia woodland, gardens, and orchards, typically among shrubs and the outer canopy of small trees. Often exploits flowering aloes and other nectar-rich plants.
