The olive-headed greenbul is a species of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is native to the eastern Afromontane.
Region
Eastern Afromontane
Typical Environment
Found in evergreen and montane forests of the Eastern Arc and adjacent highlands. It frequents forest edges, clearings with dense shrub layers, and well-vegetated ravines. The species uses midstory strata for foraging but will descend to thickets and vine tangles for cover. It tolerates some habitat disturbance where fruiting trees and dense understory remain. In some areas it also utilizes bamboo patches and mature secondary growth.
Altitude Range
900–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The olive-headed greenbul is a foliage-gleaning songbird of the Afromontane forests, where it keeps to the middle and lower canopy. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving quietly while giving soft contact notes. Its preference for mature forest and well-developed secondary growth makes it a useful indicator of intact montane habitat.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups within dense foliage. Frequently joins mixed-species flocks of forest songbirds while foraging. Builds a neat cup nest low to mid-height in dense vegetation; pairs are presumed monogamous within a breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of mellow, fluty whistles that may accelerate slightly, interspersed with soft chattering notes. Calls include sharp chips and thin contact whistles given as birds move through cover.
