Zosterops hypolais
The Plain White-eye, *Zosterops hypolais*, is a captivating small passerine bird, truly unique among its family for its distinctive lack of a prominent white eye-ring. Measuring approximately 10-12 cm in length and weighing around 8-12 grams, this species exhibits a subtle charm with its olive-green upperparts and pale yellow to whitish underparts. Its most defining field mark, contrary to its family name, is the absence of the typical white eye-ring, replaced instead by a faint, pale yellow ...
This species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, secondary growth, plantations, and well-vegetated gardens across its island range, often found at lower to mid-elevations.
The Plain White-eye has an omnivorous diet, primarily feeding on small insects, nectar from various flowering plants, and small fruits or berries.
Plain White-eyes are active diurnal birds, typically foraging energetically throughout the day, often in mixed-species flocks or small conspecific groups. They are adept at gleaning insects from foliage and bark, while also hovering to extract nectar from flowers. These birds are generally reside...
The Plain White-eye is an island endemic, with its entire distribution restricted to the Caroline Islands in Micronesia. Specifically, it is found on the main islands of Yap, Chuuk (formerly Truk), Pohnpei, and Kosrae, along with some of their smaller satellite islands. This species is non-migrat...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name and family, the Plain White-eye uniquely lacks the distinct white eye-ring found in most *Zosterops* species. This is a key identifier. - It is entirely endemic to a few islands within the Caroline Islands archipelago in Micronesia, making it a true island specialist. - ...