The light-vented bulbul, also called the Chinese bulbul, is a species of bird in the bulbul family found in central and southern China, Hong Kong, Macao, the Philippines northern Vietnam, southern Japan and Taiwan, with occasional records from South Korea. A common species of songbird that favors lightly wooded habitats, it can frequently be seen in towns, suburbs and urban parks within its range.
Region
East Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in central and southern China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, northern Vietnam, the Philippines (north), and southern Japan, with occasional records in South Korea. It favors secondary growth, gardens, orchards, parks, river edges, and lightly wooded hillsides. Frequently found in suburban and urban environments where fruiting trees and shrubs are available. It uses hedgerows and thickets for nesting and shelter and readily occupies plantations and farmland edges.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Chinese bulbul, this adaptable songbird thrives in towns, suburbs, and lightly wooded areas. It is an important seed disperser thanks to its fruit-heavy diet, helping regenerate urban green spaces. Bold and confiding, it often perches on exposed branches or wires to deliver its clear, whistled songs.
Light-vented bulbul from Shanghai
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; slightly undulating
Social Behavior
Commonly seen in small groups or loose flocks outside the breeding season. Pairs are monogamous, building neat cup nests in shrubs or small trees. Clutches typically contain 2–4 eggs, and adults are tolerant of human presence in urban parks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, fluted whistles and chatters delivered from exposed perches. Calls include lively scolds and tinkling notes, often repeated in short phrases.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with greyish-white underparts and a pale vent. Distinct white cheek patch and supercilium set off by a black crown and nape; wings and tail edged olive. Tail often shows white tips; overall sleek, smooth plumage.
Diet
Feeds primarily on fruits and berries such as figs and mulberries, supplementing with insects, caterpillars, and other small invertebrates. Will also take nectar and soft buds when available. Its fruit consumption makes it an effective seed disperser in both natural and urban habitats.
Preferred Environment
Forages in fruiting trees, shrubs, hedgerows, and garden vegetation from ground level to canopy. Often visits orchards and roadside plantings and readily uses urban parks and courtyards.
