The yellow-spectacled heleia, also known as the yellow-ringed white-eye is a species of bird in the white-eye family of Zosteropidae. It is found in the Lesser Sunda Islands.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in hill and montane forests, forest edges, and secondary growth across parts of the Lesser Sundas. It forages from the mid-story to canopy, often along edges and clearings where flowering and fruiting plants are abundant. The species tolerates lightly disturbed habitats and sometimes visits gardens or agroforests near forest margins. It is generally absent from heavily urbanized or treeless areas.
Altitude Range
300–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the yellow-ringed white-eye, this small passerine is named for its bright yellow orbital ring that looks like spectacles. It is endemic to Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands and typically joins lively mixed-species flocks. Like many white-eyes, it helps control insects and may aid pollination when visiting flowers.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in small, noisy flocks and frequently joins mixed-species foraging parties. Pairs build small cup nests suspended from twigs or in dense foliage. During breeding, pairs can become more territorial around nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched twitters and rapid whistles delivered in short bursts. Contact calls are sharp and sibilant, keeping flock members coordinated. Song can quicken during courtship or when flocks are moving through the canopy.
