Iole viridescens
The Olive Bulbul, *Iole viridescens*, is a common and widespread songbird belonging to the Pycnonotidae family, characteristic of Southeast Asian forests. Measuring approximately 17-20 cm in length with a weight of 25-35 grams, its plumage is predominantly a dull olive-green on the upperparts, contrasting with paler, often yellowish-washed underparts and a distinctive white or pale eye-ring. While there is no significant sexual dimorphism, females may appear slightly smaller. This species is ...
Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, this bulbul also adapts to forest edges, secondary growth, and even plantations, typically at elevations from sea level up to 1500 meters.
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on a mix of insects (gleaned from foliage) and a wide variety of ripe fruits and berries.
Olive Bulbuls are active, diurnal birds, typically foraging in the mid-story and sub-canopy of forests. They often join mixed-species foraging flocks, moving deliberately through foliage to glean insects and pick ripe fruits. Their territorial behavior becomes pronounced during the breeding seaso...
The Olive Bulbul has an extensive distribution across Southeast Asia, primarily resident throughout its range. It is found from southern Myanmar, across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, extending south through Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. Its range also includes the large Sunda Island...
Least Concern
- The Olive Bulbul is one of several 'green' or 'olive' bulbuls in Southeast Asia, leading to frequent identification challenges and taxonomic revisions within the *Iole* and *Ixos* genera. - Despite its relatively plain appearance, its vocalizations are highly distinctive and often the best way ...