Ixos mcclellandii
The Mountain Bulbul (Ixos mcclellandii) is a striking, medium-sized passerine bird belonging to the Bulbul family (Pycnonotidae), characterized by its distinctive olive-green upperparts that transition to a greyish head, often adorned with a subtle crest. Its underparts are typically paler, ranging from yellowish-white to light grey, with prominent rufous undertail coverts serving as a key field mark. This elegant species measures approximately 20-24 cm (8-9.5 inches) in length, with a wingsp...
Primarily inhabiting subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, this species is found from foothills up to elevations of 2,500 meters, occasionally higher. It prefers forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth within its preferred altitudinal band.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting primarily of small insects and invertebrates gleaned from foliage, supplemented heavily by a wide variety of wild fruits and berries.
Mountain Bulbuls are diurnal and highly active, often encountered singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and famously as key components of mixed-species foraging flocks. They are constantly moving through the forest canopy and understory, diligently searching for food. Foraging involves gleani...
The Mountain Bulbul boasts an extensive distribution across South and Southeast Asia, primarily resident throughout its range, though with significant altitudinal movements. Its breeding and year-round distribution spans the Himalayan foothills from northern India (Uttarakhand eastward), Nepal, a...
Least Concern
- The Mountain Bulbul is known to be a "nuclear species" in mixed-species foraging flocks, meaning other bird species often follow it to find food. - Despite its name, it can be found at lower elevations during non-breeding seasons or in certain parts of its range due to altitudinal migration. - ...