The black-headed mountain greenbul, also known as the mountain greenbul or eastern mountain greenbul, is a species of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is native to the eastern Afromontane. Its diet consists of fruit and nectar.
Region
Eastern Afromontane (East Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane evergreen forests and adjacent secondary growth across the Eastern Arc ranges of Tanzania and into southeastern Kenya (e.g., Taita Hills). It prefers dense, moist forest interiors but readily uses edges, clearings with shrubs, and bamboo thickets. Often keeps to the mid-story, moving methodically through foliage. It can be locally common where intact montane forest remains.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the mountain greenbul or eastern mountain greenbul, this species inhabits the Eastern Afromontane forests. It forages quietly through mid-story foliage and often joins mixed-species flocks. Its diet is dominated by fruit and nectar, helping disperse seeds of montane plants. Vocal, with rich whistles that carry through misty forest valleys.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in dense vegetation, with both parents involved in care. Generally monogamous within a breeding season and maintains small territories in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of rich, fluty whistles and conversational twitters delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp chips and mellow notes used to maintain contact within flocks.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellow-olive underparts and a contrasting blackish head and throat. Feathers appear smooth and slightly glossy on the head, with softer, more diffuse olive tones on the body. Undertail coverts may be paler to yellowish.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small fruits and berries from a variety of montane shrubs and trees. Also laps nectar from flowering plants and occasionally supplements with small insects or other invertebrates. Plays a role in seed dispersal by passing viable seeds after consuming fruit.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid-story and canopy edges of moist montane forest, along forest trails, and in secondary growth. Often exploits fruiting trees and flowering shrubs at forest margins and clearings.
