The Santa Cruz white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to the Solomon Islands.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Santa Cruz Islands in the Solomon Islands, where it occupies tropical lowland forests, secondary growth, and wooded gardens. It uses both canopy and midstory, often along forest edges and small clearings. The species tolerates some habitat modification and may visit flowering shrubs and fruiting trees. Dense thickets and mixed-species foraging flocks are commonly used during feeding bouts.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small white-eye is confined to the Santa Cruz Islands of the Solomon Islands, where it frequents forests, edges, and gardens. Like many white-eyes, it forages in active flocks and plays an important role in controlling insects and pollinating flowers. Its bright white eye-ring and quick, tinkling calls make it easy to detect even in dense foliage.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forms small, chattering flocks outside the breeding season and forages in mixed-species groups. Pairs establish small territories during breeding and build neat cup nests in shrubs or small trees. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A quick, high-pitched series of tinkling notes and thin warbles delivered in short bursts. Contact calls are soft 'tsee' or 'tzip' phrases exchanged frequently within foraging flocks.
