Cleptornis marchei
The Golden White-eye (*Cleptornis marchei*) is a striking passerine bird, instantly recognizable by its brilliant, uniform golden-yellow plumage contrasting with a conspicuous white eye-ring. This charismatic species measures approximately 14 cm (5.5 inches) in length and weighs around 18 grams, featuring a short, pointed orange bill and similarly colored orange legs. Its primary and tail feathers are often slightly darker, giving a subtle contrast against the vivid body. Taxonomically, it ho...
This species primarily inhabits native limestone forests and secondary forest growth, favoring dense understory and canopy areas. It can be found from sea level up to the highest elevations on its islands.
It is an omnivorous species, primarily consuming insects (caterpillars, beetles, spiders), nectar from various flowering plants, and small fruits or berries.
The Golden White-eye is a diurnal and highly active bird, constantly flitting through the canopy and mid-story in search of food. Its foraging strategy is diverse, involving gleaning insects from foliage, probing flowers for nectar, and plucking fruits. While often observed singly or in pairs, th...
The Golden White-eye is an exceptionally restricted island endemic, found solely on the islands of Saipan and Aguijan within the Northern Mariana Islands archipelago, a U.S. territory in the western Pacific Ocean. Historically, it was abundant across Saipan, inhabiting various forest types from c...
Critically Endangered
- The Golden White-eye is one of the most distinctive members of the white-eye family due to its unique golden plumage and bill morphology. - It is critically endangered and found naturally on only two small islands: Saipan and Aguijan in the Northern Mariana Islands. - Its population has been de...