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Overview
Grande Comore bulbul

Grande Comore bulbul

Wikipedia

The Grande Comore bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found on the Comoro Islands. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. Until 2011, the Moheli bulbul was considered as a subspecies of the Grand Comoro bulbul. Alternative names for the Grande Comore bulbul include the Comoro bulbul and Grand Comoro black bulbul.

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Distribution

Region

Comoros Archipelago

Typical Environment

Restricted to Grande Comore, especially along forested slopes of Mount Karthala and adjacent foothills. It occupies subtropical and tropical moist montane forest, secondary growth, plantations, and village edges. The species forages from the understory to the canopy and readily uses disturbed habitats where fruiting shrubs are abundant. It can be locally common in mosaic landscapes with both trees and open patches.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2300 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size20–23 cm
Wing Span28–35 cm
Male Weight0.055 kg
Female Weight0.05 kg
Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Endemic to Grande Comore in the Comoros, this bulbul favors forest edges and montane habitats but also uses gardens and plantations. Until 2011, the Moheli bulbul was treated as a subspecies; it is now recognized as a separate species. The Grande Comore bulbul is vocal and adaptable, often among the most conspicuous native birds on the island.

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with brief glides

Social Behavior

Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, forming looser flocks outside the breeding season. Territorial during breeding, with both parents involved in nest building and care. Nests are open cups placed in trees or dense shrubs.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A loud, varied mix of chattering notes, whistles, and scolding calls. Songs carry well through forest edges and are delivered from exposed perches, especially at dawn.

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