The Halmahera golden bulbul is a species of passerine bird in the bulbul family of Pycnonotidae. It is found in Morotai, Halmahera and Bacan Islands, Indonesia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
North Maluku, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found on the islands of Halmahera, Morotai, and Bacan in the northern Moluccas. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including forest edges, secondary growth, and selectively logged areas. The species forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy and can venture into overgrown gardens and plantation edges. It is typically absent from the most open, heavily cleared landscapes but tolerates moderate disturbance.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This bulbul is part of the golden bulbul complex that was recently split, with the Halmahera population recognized as a distinct species. It is adaptable and often persists in secondary growth and edge habitats. As a frequent fruit-eater, it likely plays an important role in seed dispersal in North Maluku forests.
Temperament
active and somewhat wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a small cup nest in shrubs or trees. Both parents likely participate in nest defense and feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, fluty whistles interspersed with chattering and scratchy notes. Calls include sharp chips and scolding rattles when alarmed.
Plumage
Mostly golden-yellow below with olive to olive-brown upperparts; plumage appears smooth with a slight gloss on the mantle and wings. The head and throat are yellow, contrasting with darker olive mantle and wings. Undertail can be paler, and the tail is olive-brown.
Diet
Takes a variety of soft fruits and berries, including figs and other native forest fruits. Also consumes insects and other small arthropods gleaned from leaves and branches. Occasionally hawks short distances to snatch flying prey and may visit fruiting trees in small groups.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid to upper canopy layers, especially along forest edges and in secondary forest. Frequently visits fruiting trees and vines and may feed in overgrown gardens adjacent to forest.
