Orange river white eye

Introduction: Orange River white-eyes (Zosterops pallidus) are resident and common in thorny vegetation, wooded gardens, parks, streets in towns, Eucalyptus plantations and poplar groves. A leader member of a group will fly from one tree to another once an area has been gleaned of food. Eventually the other flock members will follow.

Distribution: Widespread along the Orange River and in the Fish River Canyon. These white-eyes range inland from Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, along the Swakop and Kuiseb River watercourses. Found in other scattered locations of southern, central and northern Namibia including Etosha National Park.
Diet: Probes in crevices and under bark for insects and berries.

Description: Upper parts mainly pale olive green less for a characteristic black stripe that extends from the base of the bill through the lores to the front of the eye. There is also a yellow stripe that extends over the base of the upper mandible. Before a song starts, a quiet stammer can be heard.
Breeding: Little is known of their breeding habits. Females usually lay 3 eggs between October and March.

Size: 12cm.

Weight: 9g.