The silver-eared mesia typically lives from 12 years and 5 months to 20 years and 8 months, although the maximum recorded lifespan is 12 years; the species reaches sexual maturity from 1 month and 2 weeks to 2 months of age. The embryo develops inside an egg, receiving nourishment from the yolk and growing until hatching. The young bird remains in the nest, where parents feed it insects until it is fully feathered and learns to fly, a stage lasting from 1 week and 6 days to 2 weeks and 2 days. Following this, the young bird after rapid growth follows its parents, learns to find food, and gradually acquires adult plumage, a period of 2 to 10 months. The adult silver-eared leiothrix is capable of reproduction, exhibits bright plumage, actively sings, and defends its territory, living for 1 to 8 years.