Charlotte's Bulbul

Iole charlottae

Charlotte's Bulbul (Iole charlottae) is a charming, medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 17-18 cm (6.7-7.1 in) in length and weighing between 18-24 grams. Its plumage is characterized by rather subdued dull olive-green upperparts, which can appear somewhat brownish in certain light, beautifully contrasting with lighter, often yellowish-olive underparts. The throat is usually a dingy white or pale yellow, blending into the more saturated bright yellow of the vent and undertail-coverts, ...

Habitat

Primarily found in tropical and subtropical lowland evergreen forests, including primary, secondary, and logged forests, and forest edges, typically at elevations from sea level up to around 1,000 meters.

Diet

Omnivorous, feeding predominantly on a variety of small insects (such as beetles, ants, and larvae) gleaned from foliage, supplemented by numerous small forest fruits and berries.

Behavior

Charlotte's Bulbuls are generally observed singly or in small, loose mixed-species foraging flocks, moving quietly through the mid-story and undergrowth of dense forests. They are active during daylight hours, spending significant time gleaning small insects from foliage or making short sallying ...

Range

Charlotte's Bulbul is endemic to the Sundaic region of Southeast Asia. Its primary distribution encompasses the lowlands of Peninsular Malaysia, the large island of Sumatra, and the expansive island of Borneo, including several smaller associated islands. Subspecies distribution is relatively dis...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The genus name *Iole* originates from Greek mythology, referring to a princess, perhaps subtly hinting at the bird's unassuming elegance. - Its subdued olive-green plumage provides exceptional camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the dense forest understory it calls home. - Despite ...

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