Listen to the Silvereye
Recording by Frank Lambert · xeno-canto XC1051447
Silvereye
Māori name: Tauhou
Scientific name: Zosterops lateralis
Not Threatened
The silvereye is a tiny, sociable bird named for the distinctive ring of white feathers around its eye. Known affectionately as the 'waxeye' or 'tauhou' (meaning stranger), it self-introduced to New Zealand from Australia in the 1850s and is now one of our most common garden and bush birds. Silvereyes move through the Pāuanui bush in lively flocks, feeding on nectar, fruit, and tiny insects.
Did you know?
Silvereyes are important pollinators of native plants. On cold nights, they huddle together in tight clusters to share warmth — groups of up to 10 birds have been found roosting this way.
Threats
Rats and stoats predate nests heavily, particularly in mast years. Despite being common, silvereyes benefit significantly from predator control.