The Socotra white-eye is a bird species in the family Zosteropidae. It is found on the island of Socotra and in Somaliland.
Region
Horn of Africa and Socotra Archipelago
Typical Environment
It occurs on the island of Socotra and also in parts of coastal and montane Somaliland. Typical habitats include semi-arid scrub, frankincense and acacia woodlands, rocky wadis, and edges of cultivation. It is frequently seen in villages and gardens where flowering trees and shrubs provide nectar. The species is adaptable and uses both natural and lightly disturbed habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Socotra white-eye is a small, energetic songbird known for its bold white eye-ring and constant chattering calls. It forages in lively flocks, including mixed-species groups, and readily visits flowering shrubs for nectar. On Socotra it is a familiar bird in gardens, wadis, and scrub, adapting well to human-altered landscapes. Its taxonomy has been discussed in relation to nearby Horn of Africa populations, but it remains a distinct island-associated white-eye.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small, tight flocks and may join mixed-species feeding parties. Pairs form during the breeding season and build small cup-shaped nests in shrubs or small trees. Both parents typically participate in caring for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid, high-pitched series of twitters and trills, interspersed with soft chattering notes. Calls are thin and sibilant, often given continuously as flocks forage through foliage.
Plumage
Compact white-eye with smooth green upperparts, yellowish throat and vent, and greyish to whitish underparts. The feathers appear neat and sleek, giving a clean, uniform look with minimal streaking.
Diet
It feeds on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Nectar from flowering shrubs and trees is an important resource, especially during dry periods. It also consumes soft fruits and berries when available, switching opportunistically among food sources.
Preferred Environment
Foraging is typically in the mid to upper foliage of shrubs and small trees, including acacia and frankincense. It frequents gardens, oases, and wadis where flowering plants and fruiting shrubs are present.
