General Description
Silvereyes have a grey upper body and grey-white underparts. Head and wings are olive-green. Sides of body are pale brown or red-brown (chestnut). Tail pale yellow underneath. Distinctive white ring around the eye. Body length of up to 12 cm and they weigh only 11 grams.
Biology
One of the smallest birds in Australia. Silvereyes breed in spring and summer. During the breeding season they are found in pairs and will actively defend their territory. At other times they form large flocks. Parents can raise up to three clutches during the breeding season, with birds being able to breed from nine months of age. In winter, local populations migrate north, being replaced by birds arriving from the south. Silvereyes feed on insects, fruit and nectar and will commonly eat from feed tables.
Distribution
Pacific Islands. Southern and eastern mainland Australia and Tasmania.
Habitat
Coastal heath, shrublands, forests, farms, and urban areas.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
A small bird with a conspicuous white eye ring. Often visits feeding stations in gardens.
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Colours
Green, Brown
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Maximum Size
12 cm
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Habitats
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Diet
Omnivore
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Diet Categories
Insects, Fruit, Nectar
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Endemicity
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Conservation Statuses
CITES: Not listed, FFG Threatened List: Not listed, EPBC Act 1999: Not listed, IUCN Red List: Least Concern
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Taxon Name
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Common Name
Silvereye
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Kingdom
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Phylum
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Subphylum
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Class
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Order
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Family
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Genus
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Species Name
lateralis
