Zosterops ceylonensis
The Sri Lanka White-eye (*Zosterops ceylonensis*) is a small, vibrant songbird endemic to the montane cloud forests and submontane woodlands of Sri Lanka. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing around 8-12 grams, its plumage is characterized by bright olive-green upperparts and pale yellow-green underparts, often with a brighter yellow throat and vent. The most striking and diagnostic field mark is its prominent, broad white eye-ring, which stands out against its dark lores a...
This species primarily inhabits montane and submontane cloud forests, evergreen woodlands, and is often found in associated habitats like tea plantations and gardens, typically above 1,000 meters elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small invertebrates such as caterpillars, aphids, and beetles, supplemented significantly by nectar from various flowering plants and occasional small berries. Forages by gleaning foliage and probing flowers.
The Sri Lanka White-eye is a highly active and gregarious diurnal species, often observed foraging in small flocks or participating in mixed-species feeding flocks. It employs an agile foraging strategy, gleaning insects from foliage, probing flowers for nectar, and occasionally snatching small b...
The Sri Lanka White-eye is strictly endemic to the central highlands of Sri Lanka, exclusively found within the country's montane and submontane regions. Its breeding range is confined to altitudes generally above 1,000 meters (3,300 feet), extending up to around 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) or occa...
Least Concern
- The Sri Lanka White-eye is one of only two white-eye species found on the island, with the other being the widespread Oriental White-eye (*Zosterops palpebrosus*), which typically inhabits lower elevations. - Its distinctive broad white eye-ring is a key field mark that helps differentiate it f...