Zosterops mauritianus
The Mauritius Grey White-eye (Zosterops mauritianus) is a captivating passerine endemic to the island of Mauritius, distinguished by its vibrant olive-green upperparts, soft grey throat and belly, and a bright yellow vent. Its most characteristic feature, giving the genus its name, is the prominent, unbroken white ring encircling its eye, sharply contrasting with its dark lore. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm in length and weighing around 8-12 grams, this small, agile bird exhibits typical W...
This species thrives in a variety of forested habitats across Mauritius, including native upland evergreen forests, secondary forests, scrubland, and even cultivated areas and gardens with sufficient tree cover. It is commonly found from sea level up to the highest elevations of the island.
Their diet is omnivorous, primarily consisting of small insects and larvae gleaned from vegetation, supplemented by nectar from a variety of flowering plants, and small fruits and berries.
The Mauritius Grey White-eye is a highly active, diurnal species, constantly on the move as it forages through the canopy and undergrowth. They are predominantly arboreal, gleaning insects from foliage and bark, probing flowers for nectar, and plucking small fruits. While often observed singly or...
The Mauritius Grey White-eye is strictly endemic to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, making its entire global distribution confined to this relatively small landmass. It is a resident species with no migratory movements, remaining within its home range throughout the year. Its distrib...
Least Concern
- The Mauritius Grey White-eye is one of only two endemic white-eye species on Mauritius, the other being the critically endangered Mauritius Olive White-eye (Zosterops chloronothos). - Despite its 'Grey' name, its back is a distinct olive-green, with the 'grey' referring more to its underparts. ...