Bleda notatus
The Yellow-lored Bristlebill (*Bleda notatus*) is a striking passerine from the tropical forests of Central Africa, belonging to the bulbul family (Pycnonotidae). Averaging 19-21 cm (7.5-8.3 inches) in length and weighing 40-60 grams, it boasts vibrant olive-green upperparts beautifully contrasting with bright yellow underparts. Its most distinctive field mark, giving the species its name, are the prominent yellow lores and stout, stiff bristles at the base of its dark bill. Sexes are monomor...
Exclusively inhabits the dense undergrowth and mid-story of primary and secondary lowland rainforests, forest edges, and gallery forests. Typically found at elevations below 1000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, gleaned actively from foliage and bark. Also supplements its diet with small fruits and berries.
Primarily diurnal, the Yellow-lored Bristlebill spends its day actively foraging, often alone or in pairs, rarely joining larger mixed-species flocks. It is a highly skulking species, preferring the dense tangle of vines and undergrowth, making it more often heard than seen. Its foraging strategy...
The Yellow-lored Bristlebill is resident throughout a significant portion of Central Africa, with its distribution centered primarily in the Guineo-Congolian rainforest belt. Its core breeding and year-round range extends across southern Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, ...
Least Concern
- The "bristlebill" in its name refers to the stiff, hair-like feathers (rictal bristles) at the base of its bill, thought to aid in insect capture or protection of the eyes. - Despite its vibrant yellow plumage, this species is notoriously difficult to observe due to its preference for dense und...