The ashy bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found on the Indian subcontinent and in Southeast Asia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Himalayan foothills and northeastern India through Myanmar, southern China, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam into parts of the Malay Peninsula. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests, often using forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth. The species favors the mid- to upper canopy but also descends to fruiting shrubs along trails and streams. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats provided there is sufficient tree cover and fruiting resources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The ashy bulbul is a canopy-leaning songbird of humid forests, where it forages methodically for fruit and insects. It plays an important role in seed dispersal across South and Southeast Asian forests. Subspecies vary noticeably, with some populations showing a darker hood or stronger yellow tones below. It is generally inconspicuous but reveals itself with bright, whistled songs.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small parties, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a neat cup nest placed on a branch or fork, typically a few meters above ground. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, ringing whistles and fluty phrases delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include sharp, scolding notes and softer contact chips, varying by region and subspecies.
Plumage
Overall ashy-grey with a slight crest, cleaner paler underparts, and olive-tinged wings and back; yellowish undertail coverts provide contrast.
Diet
Eats small fruits and berries, including figs and other soft fruits, and supplements with insects such as beetles, caterpillars, and other arthropods. Forages by gleaning from leaves and twigs and occasionally makes short sallies to snatch prey. Seasonal availability of fruit influences local movements and flocking behavior.
Preferred Environment
Feeds primarily in mid- to upper-canopy of moist forest and along edges where fruiting trees are abundant. Also uses secondary growth, bamboo thickets, and riparian corridors, especially where fruit is plentiful.
