Wakatobi white-eye

The Wakatobi white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is endemic to Indonesia, where it is known only from the Wakatobi Islands off south-eastern Sulawesi. It can be distinguished from most other Indonesian white-eyes by its bright yellow belly. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the lemon-bellied white-eye, but it was long known to be reproductively isolated from the rest of the species, and a 2019 genetic study found it to be a distinct species.

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Distribution

Region

Southeast Sulawesi (Wallacea)

Typical Environment

Occurs on the Wakatobi archipelago, inhabiting coastal and lowland habitats. It frequents forest edges, scrub, coconut groves, village gardens, and secondary woodland. Birds forage from shrub layer to canopy, often along edges and clearings. Mangrove fringes and mixed agricultural mosaics are also used. Its insular range makes it sensitive to local habitat changes despite its adaptability.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 400 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size10–12 cm

Wing Span16–18 cm

Male Weight0.01 kg

Female Weight0.009 kg

Life Expectancy7 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

The Wakatobi white-eye is confined to the Wakatobi Islands off southeastern Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is notable for its bright yellow belly and bold white eye-ring. Long treated as a subspecies of the lemon-bellied white-eye, it was elevated to species status following genetic and bioacoustic evidence published in 2019. It readily uses secondary growth and gardens, which may help it persist in human-modified landscapes.

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually travels in small, noisy flocks or family groups and often joins mixed-species parties. Pairs build a small cup nest suspended in shrubs or small trees. Both sexes likely share incubation and chick-feeding duties. Outside breeding, groups move widely through suitable edge habitats.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a quick series of thin, tinkling trills and twittering phrases delivered from low to mid-level perches. Calls are high, sibilant ‘tsee’ and ‘tzip’ notes used to keep contact within flocks.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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