What is the Origin of the Name Japanese White-eye?

The Japanese White-eye is named for its white-ringed eyes. The name is straightforward and memorable because it highlights their most distinctive feature.

In Chinese, the Japanese White-eye is written as '繡眼鳥' (embroidered-eye bird). The character '繡' means embroidery, possibly referring to the white ring around the eye. The Japanese name '繡眼児' uses '児' to mean 'small,' indicating a small bird with an embroidered eye.

In English, it is called 'White-eye.' Although the eyes are black and the surrounding area is white, the English name likely comes from a direct translation of the Japanese name.

Why Do Japanese White-eyes Live There?

Japanese White-eyes inhabit areas with evergreen trees, making it easier for them to blend in with their yellow-green bodies.

They are not only found in mountains and forests but also around houses and parks.

Outside of the breeding season, Japanese White-eyes form flocks, sometimes mixing with other birds. They sleep together on branches, competing to be the first to perch, resulting in crowded roosting.

The phrase '目白押し' (mejiro oshi), meaning 'crowded,' comes from this behavior. The image of many Japanese White-eyes perching together is charming.

During the breeding season, they pair up and take turns keeping watch. They groom each other, a behavior known as 'mutual preening,' which strengthens their bond.

What Do Japanese White-eyes Eat?

Japanese White-eyes are omnivores, primarily eating nectar, fruits, and berries. They prefer sweet foods and eat insects when raising chicks for extra nutrition. They visit gardens and parks for flowers and fruit.

In spring, they consume nectar from camellias, plums, cherries, and pieris. In autumn, they eat persimmons, akebia, hawthorn, and tallow tree seeds.

Their thin, pointed beaks are adapted for feeding on nectar. Their tongue, with a brush-like tip, absorbs nectar. For fruits, they rely on other birds to peck and soften the fruit before they can eat it.

How Do Japanese White-eyes Reproduce?

The breeding season for Japanese White-eyes is from April to July. They build nests together using moss, bark, spider silk, and even plastic. They lay 3-5 small eggs, which hatch after 10-12 days. Parents feed the chicks insects for nutrition and keep the nest clean. Chicks leave the nest in about 11-14 days, often before they can fly well, to avoid predators.

Japanese White-eyes are very clean, removing waste and leftover food from the nest. This cleanliness helps the chicks grow quickly and healthily.

Are Japanese White-eyes and Uguisu Different Birds?

Japanese White-eyes and Uguisu are different birds. Japanese White-eyes are yellow-green, while Uguisu are olive or brown. Uguisu are more secretive, rarely seen by humans, while Japanese White-eyes are more approachable.

Historically, both birds heralded spring, but the more familiar Japanese White-eye was often mistaken for the singing Uguisu. This mix-up persists in art and even food names, like 'Uguisu Mochi,' which is green, though Uguisu are not green.

Were Japanese White-eyes Ever Poached?

Japanese White-eyes were historically popular for their beautiful singing, leading to competitions known as 'singing contests.' Though capturing Japanese White-eyes is now illegal, poaching still occurs. These birds are sometimes sold or used in gambling. Poachers catch flocks, killing unwanted females. Stricter regulations have been enforced to protect them.

Are Japanese White-eyes an Endangered Species?

Japanese White-eyes are widespread and adaptable, feeding on various foods, so they are not currently endangered. However, the Daito White-eye is listed as 'Near Threatened' on Okinawa's Red List due to habitat loss and poaching. Protecting their environment is crucial for their survival.