The grey-headed greenbul, or grey-headed yellow-bellied greenbul, is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is native to the Western High Plateau.
Region
Lower Guinea and Cameroon Highlands (West-Central Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Nigeria through western Cameroon (including the Cameroon Highlands) to Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, with populations in both lowland and montane moist forests. Prefers dense understorey, forest edges, secondary growth, and gallery forests. Common along shaded streams and in thickets where it can forage discreetly. It tolerates some disturbance and can persist in selectively logged forest, provided understorey remains intact.
Altitude Range
200–2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The grey-headed greenbul, also called the grey-headed yellow-bellied greenbul, is a shy forest songbird of the bulbul family. It keeps to the understorey and mid-levels of moist forests, where its soft whistles can reveal its presence before the bird is seen. It often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Habitat loss is a local threat, but the species remains fairly widespread in suitable forests.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often accompanying mixed-species foraging flocks in the understorey. Builds a small cup nest low in shrubs or saplings. Both parents are involved in caring for the young. Territorial songs and calls are delivered from concealed perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of soft, clear whistles and mellow notes, often rising and falling gently. Calls include thin tseet and chipping contact notes given while foraging in cover.
