The cream-vented bulbul is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found in south-eastern Asia from the Malay Peninsula to Borneo. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. Its breast might sometimes look a little yellow.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Malay Peninsula through Sumatra and surrounding islands to Borneo, chiefly in lowland evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. It inhabits primary and well-structured secondary forest, forest edges, peat-swamp forest, and overgrown plantations. The species favors the midstory and lower canopy, often near fruiting trees. It tolerates some disturbance but remains tied to wooded habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This unobtrusive bulbul keeps to the midstory of lowland forests and often betrays its presence with soft, whistled notes. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks and follows fruiting trees, especially figs. Populations in Borneo formerly included a white-eyed form now treated as a separate species (white-eyed bulbul), a useful field tip for regional birders.
Illustration by Keulemans, 1881
Temperament
quiet, active and somewhat furtive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small parties and often associates with mixed-species flocks. Nests are neat cup structures placed in shrubs or small trees. Both parents participate in rearing the young, bringing fruit and small invertebrates to the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, whistled phrases and mellow warbles delivered from inside foliage. Calls include gentle chups and a subdued chatter when agitated.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with paler, grayish-buff underparts and a distinctly pale cream vent; breast may show a faint yellowish wash. Slightly rounded head with minimal cresting and smooth, plain-looking plumage overall.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small fruits and berries, especially figs, along with other soft fruits. Supplements its diet with insects and spiders gleaned from leaves and twigs. Occasionally takes nectar or small invertebrates flushed during foraging.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the midstory and lower canopy at fruiting trees, along forest edges, and in secondary growth. Also visits clearings and trails where fruiting shrubs are present, but avoids open, treeless areas.
