Zosterops borbonicus
The Reunion Grey White-eye, *Zosterops borbonicus*, is a charming and highly adaptable passerine endemic to Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm in length and weighing a mere 7-10 grams, this small bird is characterized by its uniform greyish-brown upperparts and paler, often whitish to very light grey underparts, sometimes with a faint yellowish wash on the flanks. A distinguishing field mark, though less prominent than in many other white-eye species, is its ...
Found across diverse environments on Réunion Island, from native humid montane forests to cultivated areas, gardens, and urban parks, demonstrating high adaptability from sea level up to over 2,000 meters.
Omnivorous, primarily consuming insects (caterpillars, beetles, spiders), nectar from various flowering plants, and small fruits and berries, adapting its diet seasonally based on availability.
Diurnal and highly active, the Reunion Grey White-eye forages continuously through vegetation during the day, often forming small, loose flocks or joining mixed-species foraging parties. Its foraging strategy involves gleaning insects and spiders from leaves and bark, probing flowers for nectar, ...
The Reunion Grey White-eye is strictly endemic to Réunion Island, a French overseas department located in the western Indian Ocean. Its distribution spans almost the entirety of this volcanic island, demonstrating a remarkable ecological versatility. It can be found from the coastal lowlands, inc...
Least Concern
- Endemic to the volcanic Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean, meaning it's found nowhere else on Earth. - Despite its name, its white eye-ring is often less prominent or even broken compared to many other 'white-eye' species, serving as a subtle identification clue. - It was once considered the s...