Megazosterops palauensis
The Giant White-eye (Megazosterops palauensis) is a striking and substantial passerine endemic to the Palau archipelago, distinguished as the largest species within the Zosteropidae family. Measuring approximately 13-14.5 cm in length and weighing around 25-30 grams, its robust build complements a plumage of vibrant olive-green on its dorsal side, transitioning to a bright yellow underneath, which pales towards the belly. Its most prominent field mark is the conspicuously large, pure white ey...
This specialized species primarily inhabits mature primary and dense secondary forests, favoring the canopy and sub-canopy layers of mountainous and hilly terrain across its restricted island range. It is typically found at higher elevations, though it can sometimes descend to lower altitudes.
Predominantly insectivorous, the Giant White-eye consumes caterpillars, beetles, and other invertebrates gleaned from leaves and bark, supplementing its diet with nectar and small fruits.
The Giant White-eye is a diurnal bird, typically observed alone, in pairs, or small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks alongside other Palau endemics. It actively gleans insects from foliage and bark, meticulously searching for prey within the forest canopy and mid-...
The Giant White-eye is strictly endemic to the Palau archipelago, an island nation in Micronesia located in the western Pacific Ocean. Its distribution is primarily concentrated on the larger islands within the group, notably Babeldaob, Koror, and Peleliu, with occasional sightings on smaller isl...
Near Threatened
- It is the largest species among all white-eyes globally, earning its "Giant" moniker. - This bird is a true endemic, found nowhere else on Earth except the Palau archipelago. - The genus *Megazosterops* is monotypic, meaning the Giant White-eye is the sole representative of its entire genus. - ...