The Mauritius bulbul, is a songbird belonging to the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is endemic to Mauritius.
Region
Mascarene Islands
Typical Environment
Now largely confined to remnant native evergreen and semi-evergreen upland forest on Mauritius, especially within protected areas. It favors mature canopy and forest edges, but will also use secondary growth and wooded ravines. Birds occasionally visit orchards and gardens near forest margins to feed on fruit. Nesting typically occurs in trees or dense shrubs, well above ground to avoid predators.
Altitude Range
100–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Mauritius bulbul is a charismatic forest songbird and an important disperser of native plant seeds on Mauritius. It is bold and inquisitive, often vocal, and pairs can be strongly territorial during the breeding season. The species has declined due to habitat loss, invasive predators, and competition from introduced birds. Conservation efforts focus on protecting upland forests and controlling invasive species.
Perched in a tree
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting flights through the canopy
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups; breeding pairs defend territories vigorously. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in trees or dense shrubs. They may join loose mixed-species foraging groups outside the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing whistles interspersed with chattering scolds and rasping notes. Calls carry far through the forest and are used frequently in territorial displays.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with greyer underparts, darker head with a small erectile crest, and a paler throat. Feathers appear soft and slightly glossy on the head and mantle.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore taking a variety of native and introduced fruits, berries, and flower nectar. It also consumes insects and other small arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. Occasionally it takes small vertebrates or eggs when available. The species plays a key role in dispersing seeds of several native trees.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily in mid-story to canopy levels of native forest and along edges and ravines. It will also exploit fruiting trees in secondary growth and sometimes visits nearby orchards and gardens.
