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Zosterops lateralis
Small bird, in general colouring is greenish back, wings and tail, grey on wings and tail, underside pale grey to white, distinctive greenish yellow head and white eye ring, small pointed beak, variations in shades and some colour additions such as chestnut occurs throughout thew range of these birds and interbreeding occurs with birds migrating extensively. Birds of mixed colouring can also be seen together during these times. Feeds on insects, nectar and fruit.
Found throughout the eastern, western and southern coastal regions of Australia, and to an extent inland, in wooded habitat, gardens and orchards. This one adjacent to high country woodland in garden setting hiding in fig tree.
Spotted on Mar 8, 2014
Submitted on May 14, 2014
3 Comments
Australia is such a large place, I can see where different parts of the country will have birds with different variations. It's like our Dark-eyed Junco's with about 6 different forms from different areas of the country.
Thanks Tom15. There are similarities in looks aren't there? The depth and distribution of colours on these birds changes throughout the country...this one you can see buff near the leg feathers, in another region this may be missing on birds, western birds have olive backs instead of grey, and so on...this one is an east coast form with the yellow throat. Tasmanian birds have more chestnut on the side or flanks, grey throats, yellow under the tail. With these birds and their migration habits one can't assume it's a certain regional species, closer inspection is needed to check whether it's a resident or a visitor!
Nice spotting! Almost looks like one of our warblers:-)