Red-whiskered Bulbul
Image: Chua Hao En (cc-by-nc)
NameRed-whiskered Bulbul
Common NameRed-whiskered Bulbul
Scientific NamePycnonotus jocosus
FamilyPycnonotidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsFeatures a prominent pointed black crest, dark brown upperparts, and white underparts with a dark incomplete breast band. The most striking features are the bright red patch below the eye (the 'whiskers') and a red vent. It also has white cheek patches.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are a series of loud, cheerful, and often abrupt calls, typically described as a 'kip-kip-kippy-kippy' or a 'pretty-pretty-pretty' whistle. It also produces various chattering and scolding notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest edge, open woodland, shrubland, gardens, agricultural areas, urban parks
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 crest, red patch below eye, red vent, white cheek patch, dark incomplete breast band
Description
The Red-whiskered Bulbul is a medium-sized passerine bird known for its distinctive pointed black crest and cheerful calls. It is an active species often found in pairs or small groups, foraging for fruits and insects in various open habitats.
