Zosterops meratusensis
The Meratus White-eye, *Zosterops meratusensis*, is a captivating small passerine, measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing around 8-10 grams. Its plumage is characterized by bright olive-green upperparts, a striking yellow throat and vent, and a grayish-white belly, all framed by its eponymous and distinctive white eye-ring, which is a key field mark. This species belongs to the Zosteropidae family, commonly known as white-eyes, and is part of a complex group of similar-lookin...
This species primarily inhabits montane and submontane evergreen forests, typically found at elevations between 800 and 1,500 meters (2,600 to 4,900 feet) above sea level.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small invertebrates gleaned from foliage, supplemented significantly by nectar from flowering plants and small, soft fruits.
Highly diurnal and energetic, the Meratus White-eye spends its days actively foraging through the forest canopy and subcanopy, often roosting communally in dense foliage at night. Its foraging strategy involves agile gleaning of insects from leaves and twigs, probing flowers for nectar, and occas...
The Meratus White-eye is strictly endemic to the Meratus Mountains, a range located in southeastern Borneo, Indonesia. Its entire known distribution is confined to these montane and submontane forests, primarily within the provinces of South Kalimantan and Central Kalimantan. This species is a re...
Endangered
- One of the newest bird species described globally, formally recognized in 2019, highlighting ongoing avian discoveries. - It is strictly endemic, meaning it is found nowhere else on Earth except the remote Meratus Mountains of Borneo, making it a unique regional treasure. - Its scientific descr...