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Overview
Common bulbul

Common bulbul

Wikipedia

The common bulbul is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is widespread throughout most of Africa except for the very arid areas. Ten subspecies are recognised based on the geographical variation in plumage. Some of these were formerly considered as separate species: Dodson's bulbul, the Somali bulbul and the dark-capped bulbul.

Distribution

Region

Sub-Saharan Africa

Typical Environment

Occupies a wide range of habitats including open woodland, savanna, thicket, riverine scrub, forest edges, plantations, parks, and suburban gardens. It avoids the most arid deserts and dense interior rainforest but readily uses mosaics and edges. The species adapts well to human-modified landscapes and often prospers in towns and villages. It is a common edge and secondary-growth specialist, frequently perching conspicuously on shrubs and small trees.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 3000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size18–20 cm
Wing Span25–30 cm
Male Weight0.04 kg
Female Weight0.038 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The common bulbul is a highly adaptable songbird that thrives in gardens, towns, savannas, and forest edges across much of sub-Saharan Africa. Ten subspecies are recognized, showing notable variation in head color and the color of the vent, which can range from white to bright yellow. Some forms were once treated as separate species, including Dodson's bulbul, the Somali bulbul, and the dark-capped bulbul. Its loud, melodious calls make it one of the most familiar urban birds in many African cities.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
A yellow-rumped sub-species in southern Africa.

A yellow-rumped sub-species in southern Africa.

Eggs of Pycnonotus barbatus inornatus MHNT

Eggs of Pycnonotus barbatus inornatus MHNT

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Typically seen in pairs or small family groups and often joins loose mixed-species foraging parties. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and defend small territories. They build a neat cup-shaped nest in shrubs or low trees, with both parents feeding the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A lively, melodious series of fluty whistles, chatters, and bubbling phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls are loud and varied, often repeated in short sequences and used for contact within pairs and family groups.

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