Hypsipetes crassirostris
The Seychelles Bulbul (Hypsipetes crassirostris), also known as the Seychelles Black Bulbul, is a striking passerine endemic to the granite islands of the Seychelles archipelago. This medium-sized songbird measures approximately 24-25 cm in length and weighs between 65-70 grams, presenting a robust build characteristic of island endemics. Its plumage is a uniform dark slate-grey, sometimes appearing almost black, contrasting sharply with its most distinctive field marks: a prominent, bushy cr...
Found primarily in native forest, dense woodlands, and often adapting to cultivated areas and gardens, typically at low to mid-elevations across the Seychelles islands.
An omnivorous species, its diet consists predominantly of fruits and berries, supplemented by a significant intake of insects, small lizards, and occasionally nectar. It forages actively in the canopy and undergrowth.
Seychelles Bulbuls are diurnal and generally active throughout the day, often seen individually or in small family groups and occasionally larger feeding aggregations. They are agile foragers, gleaning insects and larvae from foliage, sallying for flying insects, and plucking fruits and berries f...
The Seychelles Bulbul is strictly endemic to the Inner Granite Islands of the Seychelles archipelago, specifically found on Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette, and Félicité. It is a resident species, non-migratory, and maintains its presence year-round within these islands. There are no winterin...
Least Concern
- The Seychelles Bulbul is endemic to only a handful of granite islands within the Seychelles archipelago, making it a true island specialist. - Its distinctive 'mewing' or 'cat-like' call is one of the most recognizable sounds of the Seychelles forest. - Unlike many bulbuls, it lacks any yellow ...