The African red-eyed bulbul or black-fronted bulbul is a species of songbird in the family Pycnonotidae. It is found in south-western Africa. Its natural habitats are dry savanna, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and riverine scrub. It feeds on fruit, flowers, nectar, and insects.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from southwestern Angola through most of Namibia and Botswana to western Zimbabwe and northern South Africa. It favors dry savanna, thorn scrub, and semi-arid shrublands, often along riverine thickets and drainage lines. The species readily occupies towns, farms, and gardens where fruiting shrubs and water are available. It is a common resident throughout much of its range and tolerates fragmented habitats.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as the black-fronted bulbul, it is easily recognized by its vivid red eye-ring. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes and is a frequent visitor to gardens and orchards. Its fruit-eating habits make it an effective seed disperser in arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, low flights between shrubs
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family parties, sometimes joining loose mixed-species groups around fruiting trees or water. Pairs are territorial during breeding and build a small cup-shaped nest low in a shrub or tree fork. Both sexes share in nest building and feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively, chattering series of whistles and bubbling phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls include scolding chatter and sharp contact notes, often given in duets by a pair.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with paler, slightly streaked underparts and a darker, blackish face and forehead. The undertail coverts are whitish, and the tail shows pale outer edges. Feathers are sleek and smooth, giving a neat, compact appearance.
Diet
Feeds primarily on fruits and berries, including wild figs and various shrub fruits. Also takes flower buds and nectar, especially during dry periods when fruit is scarce. Supplements its diet with insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from foliage or caught in short sallies. Its fruit consumption contributes to local seed dispersal.
Preferred Environment
Forages in thorn scrub, riparian thickets, and woodland edges, frequently visiting gardens and orchards. Often feeds at mid-levels in shrubs and small trees, moving methodically through foliage and around fruiting bushes.
