Heleia muelleri
The Timor Heleia, scientifically known as *Heleia muelleri*, is a small, vibrant passerine endemic to the island of Timor. Averaging around 12-13 centimeters in length, this species is characterized by its olive-green upperparts, contrasting with a dull yellow throat and olive-yellow underparts. A broad, conspicuous white eye-ring is its most distinctive field mark, giving a clue to its family, the white-eyes (Zosteropidae). It possesses a pale bill and similarly colored legs, blending well w...
Found in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and high-altitude shrubland, primarily between 1000 and 2300 meters elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, gleaning insects from foliage. They also supplement their diet with small fruits and nectar.
The Timor Heleia is a diurnal and highly active species, often observed foraging energetically in the mid-story and canopy of its montane forest home. These birds typically move in small, loose flocks of 3-6 individuals, though they are also known to join larger mixed-species foraging parties, a ...
The Timor Heleia is strictly endemic to the island of Timor, which is politically divided between East Timor (Timor-Leste) and Indonesia (West Timor). Its distribution spans the montane regions across both parts of the island, where suitable habitat exists. The species is primarily found at eleva...
Near Threatened
- The Timor Heleia is an island endemic, meaning it is found naturally nowhere else in the world except the island of Timor. - Its distinctive broad white eye-ring is a hallmark feature, characteristic of many species within the Zosteropidae family, commonly known as white-eyes. - These birds pre...