The blue-wattled bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family of passerine birds. The specific epithet commemorates Dutch explorer Anton Willem Nieuwenhuis. The bird is endemic to the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Sundaland (Borneo and Sumatra)
Typical Environment
Primarily occupies undisturbed to lightly disturbed lowland dipterocarp forests, often near riverine corridors and swampy margins. It favors the midstory and canopy where dense foliage provides cover and foraging opportunities. The species appears patchily distributed at very low densities. It likely avoids heavily degraded or open habitats and is sensitive to forest fragmentation.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for the Dutch explorer Anton Willem Nieuwenhuis, this elusive bulbul is poorly known and very rarely observed. It inhabits lowland rainforest on Borneo and Sumatra and may be overlooked due to its similarity to other bulbuls. The species is likely sensitive to forest loss and fragmentation, which are widespread in its range. Sightings are scarce, and much of its ecology remains undocumented.
Temperament
secretive and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally accompanying mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Likely nests in concealed sites within dense foliage typical of bulbuls. Breeding biology is poorly documented and may follow typical bulbul patterns with cup nests and small clutches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are little known; presumed to give clear whistles and chattering notes typical of bulbuls. Calls may be soft and easily overlooked within dense forest.
