Lowland white-eye
The lowland white-eye is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is near endemic to the northern part of the Philippines but is also found on the Taiwanese islands of Lüdao and Lanyu. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical [moist lowland forest|tropical moist lowland forest], second growth and gardens.
Description and taxonomy
describes the bird as " Tiny songbird, green above, gray below, with yellow throat and broad white ring around the eye. Found in the Philippines and on Lanyu and Lüdao Islands southeast of Taiwan. Forages actively in tropical broadleaf forests and gardens, usually in small flocks, giving harsh, buzzy calls."Subspecies
Two subspecies are recognized:Z. m.meyeni – Found on Calayan, Luzon, Lubang, Verde, Mindoro, Caluya, Marinduque and BantonZ. m. batanis – Found on Lanyu and Lüdao and BatanEcology and behavior
Forages in the understory and often joins mixed-species flocks with other small birds. Breeding season believed to be April to August. Nest is a typical white-eye nest, a few meters above on a small tree. Clutch size 3-4.Habitat and conservation status
Has a wide range of habitats that include clearings, fishponds, rivers, second growth scrubland, and forest edge. Typically found below 1,000 meters above sea level.The IUCN has assessed this species as least-concern. This species is common all throughout and has well adapted and even benefited fromohuman modified habitats. While the Philippines has faced massive deforestation, this species adaptability has allowed it to survive and even thrive better than most Philippine birds.