Eurillas virens
The Little Greenbul, *Eurillas virens*, is a small, unassuming passerine bird belonging to the bulbul family (Pycnonotidae), renowned for its subdued olive-green plumage that allows it to blend seamlessly into its dense forest habitat. Measuring typically 12-14 cm (4.7-5.5 inches) in length and weighing 10-18 grams (0.35-0.63 ounces), it presents a generally dull olive-green back and wings, with a paler greenish-yellow wash on its underparts and distinctive yellowish undertail coverts. A pale...
This species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical lowland evergreen forests, secondary growth, forest edges, and dense thickets, typically found from sea level up to 1,800-2,000 meters in elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on caterpillars, beetles, ants, and spiders, but also consumes small berries and fruits, especially figs, gleaning items directly from foliage and branches.
The Little Greenbul is a largely diurnal and highly active species, though it frequently remains hidden within the dense foliage, often detected by its distinctive vocalizations rather than sight. Its foraging strategy involves active gleaning of insects and fruits from leaves, twigs, and branche...
The Little Greenbul is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, spanning a broad belt from West Africa eastward through Central Africa to western Kenya, and southwards into Angola and Zambia. Its breeding and resident range extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, through countries like ...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name, the 'Little Greenbul' is a prominent and widespread species across a significant portion of sub-Saharan Africa. - Often heard more than seen, its characteristic calls are a defining sound of African forests and woodlands. - Its dull, olive-green plumage is a masterclass...