Red-whiskered Bulbul
NameRed-whiskered Bulbul
Common NameRed-whiskered Bulbul
Scientific NamePycnonotus jocosus
FamilyPycnonotidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)33.5
Plumage DetailsTypically, this bulbul has dark brown upperparts, white underparts, and a prominent black pointed crest. Key features include a distinctive red patch below the eye (the 'whiskers'), a white cheek patch, and a bright red vent. The individual in the image appears to be leucistic, exhibiting mostly white plumage with some dark markings, but retaining the characteristic red whisker patch and red vent.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its cheerful, liquid, and often loud calls, typically described as a 'kip-kip-kippy-kippy' or 'pretty-pretty-pleased' song. It also produces various chirps and scolding notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, shrubland, urban, garden, agricultural
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 FeaturesProminent black pointed crest, Red patch below the eye ('whiskers'), Red vent, White cheek patch, Cheerful vocalizations
Description
The Red-whiskered Bulbul is a medium-sized passerine bird characterized by its distinctive pointed black crest and a prominent red patch below the eye. It is an active and vocal species, often found in open woodlands, gardens, and scrub, feeding on fruits and insects.
