- general description
- appearance
- the cape white-eye is a small, olive-green bird with a distinctive white eye-ring, giving it its name.
- the underparts are lighter, often yellowish or grayish, depending on the subspecies.
- the beak and legs are generally dark, and the eyes are a striking white surrounded by black.
- size: typically measures about 11-13 cm in length.
- behavior
- known for its active and social behavior, often seen in flocks.
- it has a high-pitched, melodious song used for communication and establishing territory.
- frequently flits through foliage and branches in search of food, often hovering to pick insects off leaves.
- habitat
- range: found primarily in southern africa, including south africa, lesotho, and swaziland.
- environment:
- prefers a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, gardens, and urban areas.
- often found in areas with dense vegetation and ample food sources.
- diet
- primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects and small invertebrates.
- also consumes fruits, nectar, and sometimes small seeds.
- breeding
- nesting
- builds a small, cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers, leaves, and twigs.
- nests are usually well-concealed in dense foliage, often in trees or shrubs.
- reproduction
- breeding season varies across its range but generally coincides with the availability of food.
- female lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-13 days.
- both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge.
- conservation status
- currently not considered endangered or vulnerable.
- listed as least concern by the iucn due to its wide range and stable population.
- interesting facts
- the cape white-eye is named for its distinctive white eye-ring, which is a key identifying feature.
- it plays an important role in controlling insect populations and pollination due to its diet and foraging behavior.
- the species is known for its adaptability, thriving in both natural and urban environments.