Zoologists have discovered two gorgeous previously unknown bird species in the Wakatobi Archipelago of Sulawesi, Indonesia.
The tongue-twisting Wakatobi white-eye and the Wangi-wangi white-eye are formally described in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society.
Both species belong to the genus Zosterops. The Wakatobi white-eye has previously been considered a variant of another bird, but scientists led by Nicola Marples of Trinity College Dublin, in Ireland, argue that it should be classed as a species in its own right. The Wangi-wangi white-eye is completely new to science.
Originally published by Cosmos as Hey there, bright eyes
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
