The honeyguide greenbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is widespread throughout the African tropical rainforest.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs broadly across the African tropical rainforest, from Upper Guinea forests of West Africa through the Congo Basin. It inhabits lowland evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, forest edges, riverine strips, and well-wooded secondary growth. The species is most frequently found in the shaded understory and lower to mid canopy, where it moves through dense foliage. It tolerates selectively logged forest and old fallows, provided sufficient canopy and understory structure remain.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, the honeyguide greenbul is not a true honeyguide; it belongs to the bulbul family (Pycnonotidae). It often joins mixed-species flocks in the rainforest understory and midstory. The species adapts fairly well to secondary and disturbed forest, which helps explain its wide distribution. As a fruit and insect consumer, it plays a role in both seed dispersal and insect control.
Temperament
shy but active
Flight Pattern
short, direct bursts through understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a small cup-shaped nest concealed in low vegetation or shrubs. Both parents typically participate in rearing the young. Territorial displays are modest, relying more on calls than aerial chases.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a series of clear, fluty whistles interspersed with soft chatters. Phrases are often repeated and can have a rising-and-falling cadence that carries through the forest understory.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with slightly browner wings and tail; underparts yellow-olive with a paler, sometimes whitish throat. Feathers appear soft and uniform, giving a smooth, unspotted look. Subtle, thin pale eye-ring and a yellowish wash around the vent can be present.
Diet
Takes small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. Also consumes a variety of soft fruits and berries, especially from understory shrubs and small trees. Occasionally hawks short distances to snatch flushed prey. Seasonal fruit availability can shift its diet toward more animal prey or more fruit.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understory and midstory of mature and secondary forests, often along edges, vine tangles, and fruiting trees. Frequently accompanies mixed-species flocks where it exploits disturbed insects and shared food sources.
