The pale-bellied white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to SE Sulawesi in Indonesia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest. The species has a limited distribution and also appears to be sensitive to human disturbance.
Region
Sulawesi, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found in the southeastern portion of Sulawesi within lowland and foothill forests. It uses primary forest, secondary growth, and forest edges, and may visit gardens or plantations adjacent to forest. The species typically forages in the mid to upper canopy, moving rapidly among leafy branches. Patchy occurrence reflects the fragmented nature of remaining lowland forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small white-eye is restricted to southeastern Sulawesi, Indonesia, where it favors lowland forest and edge habitats. Like many white-eyes, it often joins mixed-species flocks and moves quickly through foliage while foraging. Its bright white eye-ring and pale underparts help distinguish it from other local Zosterops. Habitat disturbance and forest loss likely affect its small range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in small, chattering parties and frequently associates with other small insectivores in mixed-species flocks. Pairs likely form during the breeding season, building a small cup nest suspended in foliage. Territoriality is modest, with more emphasis on flock cohesion while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, rapid series of thin twitters and soft warbles delivered from within foliage. Calls include sharp tsee or tzip notes used to maintain contact within flocks.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a distinctly paler, creamy to whitish belly and lower breast. Fine, neat feathering with a clean contrast between upperparts and underparts. A conspicuous, complete white eye-ring frames the eye.
Diet
Takes small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes nectar from flowering trees and shrubs. Soft fruits and berries are eaten when available, providing an important sugar source alongside protein-rich prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy of lowland forest and woodland edges. Will use secondary growth and occasionally cultivated trees near intact habitat.
