Red-whiskered Bulbul
NameRed-whiskered Bulbul
Common NameRed-whiskered Bulbul
Scientific NamePycnonotus jocosus
FamilyPycnonotidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)33.5
Plumage DetailsThis bulbul has a tall, pointed black crest and white cheeks with a prominent red patch below the eye, resembling 'whiskers'. It features a black moustachial stripe, brown upperparts, and white underparts, often with a broken dark breast band. The undertail coverts are a striking bright red.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its cheerful and varied vocalizations, including a distinctive, often loud, 'kip-pe-chew' or 'pretty-pleased' song. It also produces various chattering, scolding, and whistling notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, scrubland, gardens, parks, agricultural areas, urban environments
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to tropical Asia, ranging from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Southeast Asia to southern China. It has been widely introduced to other parts of the world, including Florida, Hawaii, Australia, and Mauritius.
Identifying FeaturesTall, pointed black crest, Red patch below the eye ('red whiskers'), Bright red undertail coverts, White cheeks and underparts, Brown back and wings, Black moustachial stripe
Description
The Red-whiskered Bulbul is a medium-sized passerine bird characterized by its prominent pointed black crest and distinctive red patches below the eyes. It is an active and vocal species, often found in pairs or small groups foraging in open woodlands and gardens.
