The Vella Lavella white-eye, belted white-eye, or banded white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to the Solomon Islands.
Region
Solomon Islands (New Georgia group)
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits lowland and foothill forests on Vella Lavella and nearby islands, using edges, secondary growth, and coconut groves. It also frequents gardens and village trees, especially where flowering and fruiting plants are abundant. Birds forage from the understory to the mid-canopy, gleaning leaves and probing flowers. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats but remains most common in well-vegetated areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the belted or banded white-eye, it is distinguished by a conspicuous white eye-ring and a contrasting breast band. Like many white-eyes, it forages nimbly in small, vocal groups and often joins mixed-species flocks. It is part of the rapid island radiations for which white-eyes are famous, evolving distinct traits on isolated islands.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting maneuvers
Social Behavior
Typically forages in small, chattering parties and often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy and edges. Breeding pairs build small cup nests suspended from fine twigs or in dense shrubs. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in incubation and feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of twittering notes and short trills, delivered in quick bursts. Contact calls are sharp chips used to keep groups together while foraging.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellow tones on the face and throat, pale grayish underparts marked by a contrasting dark or olive breast band. Feathers are sleek and close-fitting, giving a neat, compact appearance.
Diet
Eats small insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. Also takes nectar from blossoms and soft fruits, making it an opportunistic omnivore. Occasionally sallies short distances to snatch flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, secondary growth, and flowering trees in gardens and plantations. Most foraging occurs in the midstory, but it will move into the canopy when trees are in bloom.
