Zosterops semiflavus
The Marianne White-eye, *Zosterops semiflavus*, was a captivating passerine species endemic to the small Marianne Island in the Seychelles archipelago, now tragically presumed extinct. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm in length, this diminutive songbird was characterized by its vibrant olive-green upperparts, which transitioned to a brighter yellow on its underparts. Its most distinctive field mark, common to its genus, was a conspicuous white eye-ring, which contrasted sharply with its dark ...
Historically, this species inhabited dense native forests and scrubland on Marianne Island, preferring the interior parts of the island rather than coastal areas. Elevation was limited to the island's low hills.
Its diet was historically believed to consist primarily of small insects and their larvae, supplemented with nectar from flowering plants and small fruits found within its forest habitat.
Due to its early extinction, detailed behavioral observations of the Marianne White-eye are exceedingly rare, largely inferred from a few historical accounts and general white-eye characteristics. It was presumed to be diurnal, actively foraging for insects and possibly nectar and fruits througho...
The Marianne White-eye was strictly endemic to Marianne Island, a small island within the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean. Its entire historical range was confined to this single island, spanning only about 0.95 square kilometers. There are no records of it occurring on any other islan...
Extinct
- The Marianne White-eye is one of several 'lost birds' from the Seychelles, vanishing over a century ago. - Its scientific name, *semiflavus*, means 'half yellow,' referring to its yellowish underparts. - The last confirmed sighting of a live individual was in 1892 by William Louis Abbott, a nat...