DESCRIBE Map - with SOLO coded self-assessment rubric
Their most distinguishing feature are
their ring of white feathers around
the eye and a white-grey overcoat
with splotches of olive-green on its
head and wings. They have a fine
tapered bill and a brush tipped tongue
like the Bellbird and Tui so they can
help them collect nectar. The males
have slightly brighter plumage than
females.
They have a long life expectancy,
ranging up to ten years. The lifespan
of an average bird is around 3-5 years
so living for ten years is very
impressive for such a small bird.
They are omnivores and eat berries,
insects, nectar and fruit from native
NZ trees such as the Kahikatea,
Kowhai, Fuchsia and Bottlebrushes.
They are also one of the most
widespread birds in New Zealand and
Silvereye
are likely to be found in your
backyard. Silvereyes also fly long
Appearance New Zealand native Habitat distances to migrate at the end of
Summer because it gets so cold in the
bird
period from Autumn to Winter.
Silvereyes were first recorded in
1832 but arrived in large groups in
1856. It was assumed that they were
Lifespan History caught in a storm while migrating.
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The Silvereye, also known as the
Xuan Xuan Yeo
Cullen Lai Wax-eye, is part of the Zosteropidae
Joanna Jiang family. Its scientific name is
Zosterops Lateralis. It’s Māori name
Food Other names is Tauhou meaning ‘stranger’ or new
arrival.
The Silvereye is a unique little bird that has many fascinating attributes. They
play a distinct role in the ecosystem, helping to pollinate native trees in New
Zealand.