The Javan bulbul is a songbird species in the bulbul family. It is the type species of the genus Ixos. It is endemic to the island of Java in Indonesia in its natural habitat of subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is not considered a threatened species by the IUCN.
Region
Java, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, commonly along forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth. It frequents midstory to canopy levels, moving methodically through foliage to feed. The species can also appear in shrubby ridges and disturbed montane habitats provided fruiting shrubs and trees are present. Proximity to natural forest remains important for breeding and year-round foraging.
Altitude Range
600–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Java, the Javan bulbul inhabits moist montane forests and edges where it forages for fruits and insects. It is the type species of the genus Ixos and is often detected by its clear, fluty calls before being seen. As a frequent fruit-eater, it likely aids forest regeneration through seed dispersal.
Temperament
shy and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a small cup nest in shrubs or small trees, with both parents involved in care. Territorial during breeding but more tolerant at fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, fluty whistles interspersed with chattering notes. Calls carry well through montane forest, often revealing the bird’s presence before it is seen.
Plumage
Olive-brown to greenish-olive upperparts with paler, grayish to buff underparts and faint streaking on the throat and breast. Vent may show a slight yellowish wash. Overall plumage is plain, with subtle contrast between upperparts and underparts.
Diet
Takes a wide variety of small fruits and berries, including figs, and supplements with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage. Will sally short distances to snatch flying insects. Occasionally probes flowers for nectar and picks soft invertebrates from leaves and twigs.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the midstory and canopy of montane forest, along edges, and in secondary growth with fruiting plants. Also visits fruiting shrubs along trails and clearings.
