The Philippine bulbul is a songbird species in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Philippine archipelago, where it occupies lowland to montane tropical forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It also frequents plantations, wooded ravines, and larger gardens near forest. The species forages from understory to canopy but is most often seen in mid- to upper-levels around fruiting trees. It tolerates moderate disturbance and often persists in fragmented landscapes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Philippine bulbul is a versatile songbird that readily occupies both primary forest and disturbed habitats, including gardens and plantations. It plays an important role in seed dispersal by consuming a wide range of native fruits. Several island populations have been split by some authorities, but the core species remains widespread in the Philippines. Its adaptability helps keep populations stable in many areas.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and often joins mixed-species flocks when foraging. Builds a neat cup nest placed in shrubs or small trees. Both parents typically participate in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a varied series of liquid whistles and fluty phrases, often repeated in short sequences. Calls include chattering notes and sharp contact chips, frequently given while moving through foliage.
Plumage
Mostly brown-olive above with paler, buffy to grayish underparts and a slightly shaggy, small crest. Throat and breast can show faint streaking; vent often paler. Flight feathers are darker brown with subtle contrast against the body.
Diet
Feeds on a wide range of small fruits and berries, including figs and other native forest fruits. Supplements its diet with insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaves and branches. Occasionally takes nectar or soft plant matter, especially when fruits are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Most often forages in mid- to upper-canopy around fruiting trees, along forest edges, and in secondary growth. Will descend to lower levels in dense shrubbery when following mixed flocks or exploiting insect swarms.
