Heleia javanica
The Javan Heleia (*Heleia javanica*), a charming member of the white-eye family (Zosteropidae), is an endemic gem of Java's montane forests. Measuring approximately 11.5-12 cm in length and weighing around 12-15 grams, this small passerine is distinguished by its olive-green upperparts, dull yellowish-white underparts, and most notably, a striking, broken white eye-ring that gives the 'Heleia' genus its common name. Unlike many white-eyes with a complete eye-ring, the Javan Heleia's ring is o...
Exclusively found in montane and submontane forests, the Javan Heleia typically inhabits elevations ranging from 900 to 2,400 meters, preferring the dense canopy and subcanopy layers.
Their diet is omnivorous, primarily consisting of small insects and their larvae, supplemented by nectar from flowering plants, and small, soft-skinned fruits and berries.
Javan Heleias are highly active, diurnal birds, spending their days meticulously foraging through the foliage. They typically move in small, cohesive flocks of 5-15 individuals, often joining mixed-species foraging parties, particularly with other white-eye species. Foraging involves agile gleani...
The Javan Heleia is strictly endemic to the island of Java, Indonesia, where it is a resident species. Its distribution is concentrated within the montane and submontane forests across the central and western parts of the island. Notable breeding populations are found on major volcanoes and mount...
Least Concern
- The Javan Heleia's distinctive "broken" white eye-ring is a key feature that helps differentiate it from other white-eye species on Java, which often have complete eye-rings. - It is one of only two bird species endemic to the island of Java that belong to the Zosteropidae family, making it a u...