Pycnonotus jocosus
The Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus) is an eye-catching passerine, easily recognized by its distinctive pointed black crest, a bright red patch below the eye resembling a 'whisker', and a contrasting white rump that is conspicuous in flight. Measuring approximately 19-22 cm (7.5-8.7 in) in length and weighing 27-42 g (1.0-1.5 oz), this medium-sized songbird exhibits a brownish back, whitish underparts, and black 'necklace' extending to the chest, complemented by a long, dark tail wit...
This adaptable species thrives in open woodlands, scrublands, secondary forests, and heavily cultivated areas. It readily colonizes suburban gardens, parks, and urban green spaces, typically found from sea level up to moderate elevations.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of berries and fruits, supplemented by insects (ants, termites, caterpillars), nectar, flower parts, and occasionally small lizards; they forage by gleaning and snatching.
Red-whiskered Bulbuls are diurnal, highly active birds that forage persistently throughout the day, often perching conspicuously on bushes or trees. Their foraging strategies involve gleaning insects from foliage, snatching flying insects, and plucking fruits and berries, sometimes hanging upside...
The native range of the Red-whiskered Bulbul spans extensively across tropical Asia, from the Indian subcontinent, including Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka, eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and southern China. In many parts of its native range, it is a common resident. B...
Least Concern
- The Red-whiskered Bulbul is an extremely successful invasive species, having established populations in places like Florida, Hawaii, and Australia, often outcompeting native birds. - Its common name refers to the distinctive bright red patch of feathers below its eyes, which resemble prominent ...