Zosterops kirki
The Kirk's White-eye (Zosterops kirki) is a vibrant and active passerine, endemic to the lush forests of Grand Comoro island. Averaging 10-12 cm in length and weighing 9-15 grams, this species is easily identified by its prominent, striking white eye-ring contrasting with an olive-green head and upperparts. Its throat is a bright yellow, transitioning to a duller whitish-yellow belly and greyish flanks, all supported by dark grey legs and a slender, slightly decurved blackish bill. As a membe...
This species thrives in humid evergreen forests, secondary growth, and disturbed areas like plantations and gardens, ranging from sea level to the highest elevations of Mount Karthala (2,300m).
Primarily insectivorous, consuming small arthropods, but also frequently feeds on nectar from flowers, soft fruits, and berries.
Kirk's White-eyes are highly active diurnal birds, constantly moving and foraging, often roosting communally in dense foliage at night. Their foraging technique involves gleaning small insects from leaves and branches, and they are particularly adept at sipping nectar from flowers, sometimes hang...
The Kirk's White-eye is an island endemic, found exclusively on Grand Comoro (Ngazidja), the largest island within the Comoros archipelago off the southeastern coast of Africa. Its distribution covers all suitable wooded habitats across the island, from the low-lying coastal scrub and plantations...
Least Concern
- The Kirk's White-eye is found on only one island in the world, Grand Comoro, making it a true biological treasure. - Despite its extremely restricted range, it is considered common and can be seen in large, active flocks across the island. - It was named in honor of Sir John Kirk, a 19th-centur...