Cape White-eye
NameCape White-eye
Common NameCape White-eye
Scientific NameZosterops virens
FamilyZosteropidae
Wingspan (cm)17
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-green, with a brighter yellowish wash on the forehead and vent. The underparts are greyish-white, sometimes with a faint yellow tint on the flanks. A striking, complete white ring encircles the dark eye, and the bill is slender and dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft chirps, trills, and a characteristic cheerful, musical warbling song, often described as 'twee-twee-twee' or 'chip-chip-chip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Southern Africa, primarily found throughout South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, and parts of Namibia and Botswana.
Identifying FeaturesProminent white eye-ring, Small size, Olive-green upperparts, Greyish-white underparts, Slender dark bill
Description
The Cape White-eye is a small, active passerine bird distinguished by its prominent white eye-ring. It has olive-green upperparts and greyish-white underparts, often seen foraging in trees and shrubs for food.
