Hypsipetes leucocephalus
The Black Bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus) is a strikingly variable passerine, ranging from 24-25 cm in length and weighing between 34-64 grams, renowned for its glossy black plumage and prominent crimson bill and legs. However, its most distinctive field mark, the white head of the nominate subspecies, gives rise to its scientific name 'leucocephalus' meaning 'white head', and creates a fascinating identification challenge with its 10 recognized subspecies, many of which are entirely dark-h...
Thrives in diverse forest types, including broadleaf evergreen, deciduous, and secondary growth, from foothills up to montane regions, often above 1,000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of berries and fruits, supplemented with insects (especially during breeding) and occasionally nectar.
Black Bulbuls are diurnal and highly active, often foraging in the canopy or mid-story, and frequently join mixed-species feeding flocks, particularly outside the breeding season. They are highly vocal, with their chattering calls forming a constant presence in their habitat, often signaling thei...
The Black Bulbul boasts a vast distribution across the Oriental region, stretching from the Himalayas eastward through Southeast Asia and into China. Its breeding range encompasses much of northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China, extending to Taiwan and...
Least Concern
- The Black Bulbul has 10 recognized subspecies, which vary dramatically in appearance, from entirely black to grey-bodied with a black head, or the striking white-headed form. - Its scientific name, Hypsipetes leucocephalus, literally means 'high-flying white-head', though many subspecies lack t...