Xanthomixis zosterops
The Spectacled Tetraka, a vibrant and active passerine endemic to Madagascar, captivates with its distinctive appearance and lively behavior. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm in length and weighing 10-15 grams, this small bird sports rich olive-green upperparts and bright yellow underparts, contrasted by a prominent white eye-ring—its namesake 'spectacles'—set against dark lores. This striking ocular feature is its most reliable field mark, distinguishing it from other similar-sized forest dw...
Found primarily in humid evergreen forests, both primary and secondary, often favoring dense undergrowth and areas near streams, at elevations typically ranging from 500 to 2,300 meters.
Feeds predominantly on insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and orthopterans, as well as spiders, occasionally supplementing its diet with small berries or fruits, obtained by gleaning from vegetation.
The Spectacled Tetraka is a highly active and often restless diurnal bird, constantly moving through the forest understory. It employs an energetic foraging strategy, meticulously gleaning insects and spiders from foliage, bark, and moss-covered branches, often hanging acrobatically to reach prey...
The Spectacled Tetraka is an endemic resident of Madagascar, with its distribution primarily concentrated in the eastern and northern humid forest belts. Its range extends along the eastern escarpment from Marojejy National Park southwards, and also encompasses the Tsaratanana massif in the north...
Least Concern
- The Spectacled Tetraka is one of Madagascar's many unique endemic bird species, found nowhere else on Earth. - Its family, Bernieridae (Malagasy Warblers), is an ancient lineage that evolved exclusively on Madagascar, showcasing a remarkable adaptive radiation. - The prominent white eye-ring, w...