Zosterops novaeguineae
The Papuan White-eye, *Zosterops novaeguineae*, is a charming and active passerine belonging to the family Zosteropidae, characterized by its distinctive white eye-ring, a hallmark of the genus. Measuring approximately 11 cm in length and weighing around 8-12 grams, this small bird displays olive-green upperparts, a vibrant yellow throat and undertail coverts, and a dull white to pale grey belly. Its most prominent field mark is the crisp white ring encircling its eye, contrasting with its du...
Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, cloud forests, and high-altitude shrubland, typically at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,000 meters.
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on small insects (e.g., caterpillars, beetles), nectar from various flowers, and small fruits or berries.
Papuan White-eyes are highly active, diurnal birds, constantly moving through the forest canopy and understory. They forage actively, gleaning insects from foliage, probing flowers for nectar, and consuming small fruits, often hanging acrobatically to reach food sources. During the non-breeding s...
The Papuan White-eye is endemic to the island of New Guinea, inhabiting the extensive montane regions. Its distribution includes the central ranges of the main island, extending through the Huon Peninsula in the northeast, and southeastward into the Owen Stanley Range. Specific subspecies occupy ...
Least Concern
- The Papuan White-eye is one of many 'ring-eyes' or 'spectacled birds' in its genus, named for the prominent white ring around its eye. - Despite their small size, white-eyes are highly energetic, constantly moving and foraging. - They are often considered 'supertramps' due to their remarkable a...