The plain white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to Yap. The indigenous name in the Yapese language is "Alingithngith", which applies to both species of Zosterops found in Yap.
Region
Micronesia (Caroline Islands)
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Yap and nearby islets, inhabiting native limestone forest, secondary growth, gardens, and agroforestry mosaics. It is adaptable and often forages along forest edges, coastal thickets, and village groves. Birds move through mid- to upper-story foliage, gleaning from leaves and flowers. Although naturally a forest species, it tolerates moderate habitat disturbance and uses plantations and mixed scrub.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Known locally in Yapese as 'Alingithngith', the plain white-eye forms active foraging flocks that move through shrubs and canopy. It helps control insect populations and also takes nectar and small fruits, likely aiding pollination and seed dispersal. On Yap it can be confused with the Yap olive white-eye, but the plain white-eye is generally duller with a cleaner whitish underpart and a neat white eye-ring.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small, chattering flocks and forms monogamous pairs during breeding. Nests are small, cup-shaped structures suspended in shrub or tree forks. Pairs defend a small area around the nest but join mixed-species flocks while foraging outside the core breeding territory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of twitters and rapid warbles, delivered in short bursts. Contact calls are soft chips that keep flock members coordinated as they move through foliage.
