The black-and-white bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found on the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Sundaland (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and mature secondary evergreen forests, forest edges, and along riverine corridors. Most frequently found in the mid- to upper canopy where fruiting trees are abundant. It tolerates some disturbance but prefers larger forest blocks. In foothill zones it ascends into lower montane forest, especially where figs and other fruiting trees are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A canopy-loving bulbul of Sundaland, the black-and-white bulbul is easily recognized by its sharp, contrasting plumage. It often joins mixed-species flocks and plays an important role in seed dispersal by consuming a variety of forest fruits. Although fairly widespread, it is sensitive to extensive forest clearance and fragmentation.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks in the canopy. Builds a shallow cup nest concealed in foliage, with both parents participating in care. Territorial around nesting sites but tolerant when feeding at abundant fruit sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers bright, fluty whistles interspersed with chattering notes. Calls are clear and carry well through the canopy, often given in short, repetitive phrases.
Plumage
Strikingly contrasting black upperparts and head with clean white underparts; wings and tail show bold white patches. Plumage appears crisp and plain without heavy streaking.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small fruits and berries, including figs and other soft pulpy fruits. Supplements its diet with insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaves and branches. Occasionally sallies from perches to snatch flying insects. Its fruit-heavy diet makes it an effective seed disperser in forest ecosystems.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the mid- to upper canopy of lowland and foothill forests, especially at fruiting trees. Also uses edges, gaps, and secondary growth where fruit is abundant.
