Birds Of Japan 001:The Warbling (Japanese) White Eye 日本の野鳥001:メジロ (video)

Birds Of Japan 001:The Warbling (Japanese) White Eye 日本の野鳥001:メジロ

 (Zosterops japonicus)

 

The Japanese white-eye, also known as the mejiro, is a small passerine bird species native to Japan and several other parts of East Asia. Here's some information about the Japanese white-eye:

Appearance: The Japanese white-eye is a small bird, measuring about 11 to 12 centimeters (4.3 to 4.7 inches) in length. It has a distinctive green plumage on its upperparts, while its underparts are pale grayish or yellowish. The bird has a conspicuous white eye-ring that encircles its red or brown eyes, giving it its common name. It also features a short, slender bill.

 

Habitat: Japanese white-eyes inhabit various habitats, including forests, woodlands, gardens, parks, and shrublands. They are commonly found in both rural and urban areas across Japan, as well as in parts of China, Taiwan, and the Korean Peninsula.

Behavior: These birds are highly active and acrobatic, constantly on the move as they flit from branch to branch in search of food. They often travel in small groups, known as flocks or charms, consisting of a few individuals to dozens of birds. Japanese white-eyes are known for their sweet, high-pitched calls, which they use to communicate with each other.

Diet: The Japanese white-eye primarily feeds on nectar, fruits, berries, and insects. Their long, brush-tipped tongues are well adapted for extracting nectar from flowers. They play an important role in pollination by transferring pollen from one flower to another as they feed on nectar.

Breeding: During the breeding season, which typically occurs from March to July, Japanese white-eyes build cup-shaped nests using grass, twigs, and other plant materials. The nests are usually located in trees or shrubs. The female white-eye lays a clutch of 2 to 5 eggs, which she incubates for about 11 to 15 days. Both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge, which happens after approximately 10 to 14 days.

Cultural Significance: The Japanese white-eye holds cultural significance in Japan and is often considered a symbol of good luck and happiness. It is a popular bird among birdwatchers and is also featured in traditional Japanese art, literature, and poetry.

Overall, the Japanese white-eye is a charming and lively bird known for its distinctive appearance, melodious calls, and important ecological role as a pollinator.

緑の鳥、メジロは、日本と東アジアのいくつかの地域に生息する小型の鳥で、日本では「メジロ」としても知られています。以下に、メジロに関する情報をご紹介します。

外見： メジロは小型の鳥で、体長は約11〜12センチメートルです。上部の羽毛は鮮やかな緑色で、下部は淡い灰色または黄色味がかっています。鳥の目は赤色または褐色で、特徴的な白い目輪があり、これが一般的な名前の由来となっています。くちばしは短くて細長い特徴も持っています。

生息地： メジロは、森林、林、庭園、公園、低木地など、さまざまな生息地に生息しています。日本全土や中国、台湾、朝鮮半島の一部など、田舎や都市の両方でよく見られます。

行動： メジロは非常に活発で、食物を求めて枝から枝へと素早く動き回ります。彼らは少数から数十羽の小さな群れで移動することがよくあります。メジロは甘く高音の鳴き声で知られており、これを使ってお互いとコミュニケーションを取ります。

食事： メジロは主に花の蜜、果実、ベリー、昆虫を食べます。長く筆状の先端を持つ舌を使って花の蜜を吸い取るのに適しています。彼らは蜜を摂取する際に花から花へと花粉を運び、重要な受粉役を果たしています。

繁殖： 通常、3月から7月にかけての繁殖期に、メジロは草、枝、その他の植物の材料を使ってカップ型の巣を作ります。巣は通常、木や低木に作られます。メスは2〜5個の卵を産み、それを約11〜15日間抱卵します。孵化後、両親は約10〜14日でひなたちを餌で育てます。

文化的な意義： メジロは日本で文化的な意義を持ち、幸運や幸福の象徴とされることがよくあります。鳥観察家の間でも人気のある鳥で