The Camiguin bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is endemic to the Philippines being only found on Camiguin.
Region
Northern Mindanao (Camiguin Island), Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Camiguin Island, inhabiting lowland to montane evergreen forest as well as secondary growth and forest edges. It is most frequently encountered in the mid-story and canopy, especially around fruiting trees. The species will use mixed agroforest mosaics, but densities are highest in more intact forest. Breeding is believed to take place in denser, less disturbed tracts with adequate understory cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Camiguin bulbul is a songbird in the bulbul family (Pycnonotidae) restricted to Camiguin Island in the Philippines. Formerly treated within the Philippine bulbul complex, it is now recognized as a distinct species based on vocal and morphological differences. It tolerates secondary growth and agroforests but depends on remaining native forest for breeding, and its tiny range makes it vulnerable to habitat loss and disturbance.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, and may join mixed-species flocks when foraging. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees. Pairs are likely monogamous and defend small breeding territories.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of fluty whistles, chattering phrases, and soft scolds. Songs are most frequent at dawn, with contact calls given while moving through foliage.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a slightly grayer head and breast, pale buffy underparts, and faint streaking on the throat and upper breast. Wings and tail are darker brown with subtle edging. Often shows a slight, shaggy crest and a contrasting pale throat.
Diet
Feeds on a wide range of small fruits and berries, including figs and other native forest fruits. Supplements its diet with insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaves and twigs. Will hawk briefly for flying insects and visit fruiting trees opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid-story and canopy of forest edges, secondary growth, and semi-open woodlands. Often concentrates around fruiting trees and along riparian strips.
