The Sangihe white-eye is a species of bird in the white-eye family. It is endemic to Sangihe, Indonesia.
Region
Sangihe Islands, North Sulawesi
Typical Environment
Occurs in remaining tracts of tropical montane forest, especially mossy cloud forest with dense understory and abundant epiphytes. It forages from the midstory to the canopy, sometimes using forest edges and lightly disturbed secondary growth adjacent to primary forest. The species is highly localized, largely restricted to the Sahendaruman massif. Habitat fragmentation and ongoing forest clearance further limit its range and connectivity.
Altitude Range
600–1100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This critically endangered white-eye is confined to a tiny patch of montane forest on Sangihe Island, Indonesia, mainly around Mount Sahendaruman. It often joins mixed-species flocks and forages actively among mossy branches and epiphytes. Its extreme range restriction makes it highly vulnerable to habitat loss, and it is a flagship for conserving Sangihe’s last montane forests.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually travels in small groups or joins mixed-species flocks, moving quickly through foliage while gleaning food. Pairs likely form during the breeding season and build small cup-shaped nests in shrubs or small trees. Territoriality is modest outside of breeding, with frequent contact calls maintaining group cohesion.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin twitters and rapid, tinkling warbles delivered in short phrases. Contact calls are sharp, sibilant chips used to keep flocks together.
