Zosterops samoensis
The Samoan White-eye (Zosterops samoensis) is a captivating small passerine, endemic to the island of Upolu in Samoa. This species measures approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighs around 8-10 grams, typifying the petite stature of the Zosteropidae family. Its most striking field mark is the prominent white eye-ring, a characteristic shared with many of its congeners, which contrasts sharply with its bright yellow lores. The plumage is generally olive-green on the upperparts, with a vibran...
Exclusively found in upland rainforests, montane cloud forests, and occasionally degraded forest edges, typically at elevations above 300 meters on Upolu.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects and spiders, supplemented with nectar from flowers and small fruits or berries.
Samoan White-eyes are highly active, diurnal birds often observed foraging ceaselessly through the canopy and sub-canopy. They are predominantly social, frequently forming small to medium-sized flocks outside the breeding season, and are often seen participating in mixed-species foraging flocks a...
The Samoan White-eye is strictly endemic to the island of Upolu, Samoa, a small nation in Polynesia. Its distribution is limited to the central, higher-elevation regions of the island, primarily within the remaining tracts of montane rainforest and cloud forest. It is typically found at elevation...
Least Concern
- The Samoan White-eye is a true island specialist, found exclusively on Upolu, one of the two main islands of Samoa. - Its family name, Zosteropidae, literally means 'girdle-eye' or 'belt-eye', referring to the distinctive white eye-ring shared by most species. - Despite its small size, it plays...