Chestnut-flanked White-eye

The Chestnut-flanked White-eye, a diminutive bird with a length of 10.5 cm, is adorned with a distinctive chestnut patch on its flanks. This avian species, with a bill base and lower mandible that may present a pinkish hue, boasts underparts of a purer white.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Chestnut-flanked White-eye, look for the characteristic chestnut patches on the sides. The bird's bill may exhibit a subtle pinkish coloration, particularly at the base and on the lower mandible. Its underparts are notably whiter, providing a stark contrast to the chestnut flanks.

Habitat

This species shows a preference for deep mixed and coniferous forests, where it can be found flitting among the trees.

Distribution

The Chestnut-flanked White-eye is a migratory bird, breeding in the Manchurian region and undertaking seasonal journeys to central China, the province of Yunnan, and northern parts of Southeast Asia for the winter months.

Behaviour

This bird is noted as the most migratory among the white-eye species. During the breeding season, it can be found in forests composed of poplar, alder, and willow, as well as in thickets and groves. In the winter, it prefers deciduous and evergreen forests, typically at altitudes above 1000 meters.

Similar Species

The Japanese White-eye may be confused with the Chestnut-flanked White-eye due to some similarities. However, the Japanese White-eye is distinguishable by its pale brown flanks as opposed to the chestnut coloration of the Chestnut-flanked White-eye.

Conservation status

The Chestnut-flanked White-eye is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.