The Réunion olive white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is found on Réunion. Its natural habitats are boreal forests and subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland.
Region
Mascarene Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs across the uplands of Réunion, especially in subtropical to tropical moist montane forests, cloud forests, and high-altitude shrublands and grasslands. It frequents forest edges, ravines, secondary growth, and gardens near native vegetation. The species is most numerous in mid- to high-elevation zones where cool, humid conditions prevail. It can tolerate some habitat modification but remains tied to structurally complex vegetation. Nesting typically occurs within dense shrubs or small trees.
Altitude Range
600–2300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Réunion in the Mascarene Islands, this energetic white-eye is a frequent visitor to flowering shrubs and plays a role in pollination. It forages in small, busy flocks outside the breeding season and is easily recognized by its bright white eye-ring. Though locally common in upland habitats, it remains sensitive to habitat degradation. Its adaptability allows it to use forest edges and secondary growth as well as native montane forest.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small, chattering flocks that move quickly through foliage. Pairs establish small territories for nesting and build neat cup nests hidden in shrubs or small trees. Clutches are typically small, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of high-pitched twitters, trills, and thin see-see notes delivered in quick sequences. Contact calls are sharp and frequent as flocks forage, while the song is more prolonged during the breeding season.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler greyish to whitish underparts and a yellowish wash on the throat and flanks. Feathers are smooth and sleek, giving a neat, compact appearance. The complete, bright white eye-ring is conspicuous.
Diet
Takes small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes nectar from a variety of native and introduced flowers, occasionally acting as a pollinator. Small soft fruits and berries are eaten when available, making its diet varied across seasons.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-canopy to subcanopy of montane forest, along forest edges, and through dense shrubbery. It will also visit flowering garden plants near natural habitats.
