The Silvereye or Waxeye introduced themselves from Australia around 1832.  They are very distinctive with a beautiful white eye-ring and olive green undies, these quick little creatures are a lot of fun to share your world with.

Living in flocks, with a set pecking order, they can be seen squabbling over food as they play the day away. They take it in turns to visit feeders and can be seen swooping down one after the other. Their loud communal chatter can make quite a noise but their song is a lot quieter and is a pretty long soft warble.

What do Silvereye eat?

Like the Tui and Bellbird, the Silvereye have a brush tongue and feed on flower nectar as well as small insects, flies, aphids and spiders.  They also have a love of fruit and berries which gets them into trouble with gardeners and farmers.  

To support the Silvereye you can leave fruit out for them, or nectar and they will devour both of them.  Kohab Nectar is a deep red colour due to the addition of beetroot and will help attract them, while the additional nutrition will help them thrive. 

Supporting insects in your area by planting insect-friendly plants and letting leaf litter accumulate will also help provide them with a great natural source of protein-rich insects.