The Príncipe white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. The species was described by Gustav Hartlaub in 1866. It is endemic to the islands of Príncipe and São Tomé, where it is restricted to the hilly interiors of the southern parts. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Gulf of Guinea (West Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests, especially in undisturbed or lightly disturbed hill forests. It favors dense foliage in the mid-story to canopy but will descend to edges and clearings with flowering shrubs. The species is most frequently encountered in the hilly southern interiors of both islands and avoids open agricultural land. Secondary forest can be used if sufficient undergrowth and flowering plants are present.
Altitude Range
100–1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small white-eye is confined to the forested highlands of Príncipe and southern São Tomé, where it forages actively in the canopy. It plays a role in pollination and seed dispersal by visiting flowers and consuming small fruits. Ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation pose the main threats to its survival.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in small groups or mixed-species flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Pairs form during breeding and build a small cup nest suspended from twigs or leaves. Both parents typically engage in incubation and feeding of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of twitters and rapid warbles, often delivered from within foliage. Contact calls are sharp 'tsee' or 'tsip' notes repeated as the flock moves through the canopy.
