Zosterops rendovae
The Makira White-eye (Zosterops rendovae) is a diminutive and active songbird, measuring approximately 10-12 centimeters (4-4.7 inches) in length. Its plumage is characterized by bright olive-green upperparts, which are often brightest on the crown and back, contrasting with a yellowish-green rump. The underparts are a duller greyish-white, frequently washed with yellow on the flanks and undertail coverts, while its legs are dark and the bill is greyish. A prominent, well-defined white eye-ri...
This species primarily inhabits primary and secondary forests, forest edges, and disturbed woodland areas, ranging from sea level up to approximately 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) in elevation.
The Makira White-eye has an omnivorous diet, primarily consuming insects such as caterpillars, small beetles, and spiders, supplemented by nectar from flowering plants and small, soft berries or fruits. Foraging is done by gleaning and probing.
Makira White-eyes are highly active, diurnal birds that constantly flit through the canopy and sub-canopy foliage. They are gregarious, often foraging in small conspecific groups or joining larger, boisterous mixed-species flocks that move swiftly through the forest. Foraging involves agile glean...
The Makira White-eye is strictly endemic to the Solomon Islands, specifically found on Makira Island (formerly known as San Cristobal) and its immediate satellite islands, Santa Ana and Santa Catalina. Its distribution is therefore highly localized and restricted to this small cluster of islands ...
Least Concern
- The Makira White-eye is an island endemic, found only on a handful of islands in the Solomon archipelago, making its range incredibly specialized. - Like many other white-eye species, it is a master of aerial acrobatics, deftly maneuvering through dense forest canopy while foraging. - It freque...