The green-tailed bristlebill is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found in West Africa from Sierra Leone to Ghana. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests. It is threatened by habitat loss. The green-tailed bristlebill was originally described in the genus Trichophorus. Formerly, some authorities considered the yellow-lored bristlebill as conspecific with the green-tailed bristlebill.
Region
Upper Guinea forests of West Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Sierra Leone through Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire to Ghana, mainly in humid lowland rainforest. Prefers dense, shaded understorey in primary forest but can persist in well-regenerated secondary growth and along forest streams. It is typically absent from heavily degraded or open habitats. The species is most frequently detected by voice rather than seen, given its skulking habits.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive bulbul of West Africa’s lowland rainforests, the green-tailed bristlebill forages in dense undergrowth where its green-tinged tail can be a key field mark. It often joins mixed-species flocks and gives rich, whistled phrases that carry through the forest. Habitat loss and fragmentation across the Upper Guinea forests are its main threats.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs within dense undergrowth, and frequently associates with mixed-species flocks. Likely monogamous, building a small cup nest low in thick vegetation. Territorial calls and duets are common during the breeding period.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers rich, fluty whistles in short phrases, often repeated and carrying well through the forest. Also gives sharper chips and scolding notes when agitated.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a distinctly greener tail; underparts olive to yellow-olive and plain. The crown and face are dusky-olive with fine rictal bristles at the base of the bill. Overall appearance is plain but the tail’s greener tone contrasts with the body.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and vine tangles. Will occasionally take spiders and small snails. Some small fruits or berries may be eaten opportunistically, especially when invertebrates are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the shaded understorey and midstorey of humid lowland rainforest, often near thickets and lianas. Frequently works along forest edges, trails, and streamside tangles where cover is dense.
