The straw-headed bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found from the Malay Peninsula to Borneo. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, arable land, plantations, and rural gardens. It is threatened by habitat loss and poaching.
Region
Sundaland, Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Malay Peninsula to Borneo, with remnant populations persisting mainly where trapping pressure is lower. It inhabits lowland riverine forests, peat-swamp and mangrove edges, secondary growth, and plantations and rural gardens with tall fruiting trees. The species favors dense thickets and forest edges near watercourses. It tolerates some habitat disturbance but declines sharply where trapping and extensive clearing occur.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Famed for its rich, far-carrying song, the straw-headed bulbul has been heavily targeted by the songbird trade. It is now Critically Endangered across its range, with many local extirpations. It typically stays close to water and is most often detected by its melodious, fluty whistles.
Temperament
wary but vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, foraging quietly in midstory to canopy near water. Monogamous pairs build a small cup nest in dense vegetation. Breeding typically coincides with periods of abundant fruit. They often maintain territories centered on reliable fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, fluty series of melodious whistles and warbles, often delivered from a prominent perch and audible over long distances. Phrases are clear and varied, sometimes incorporating mimicry of other species.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a contrasting straw-yellow head and nape; underparts pale with bold dark streaking on breast and flanks. Tail is long with pale or whitish tips, and the throat is whitish.
Diet
Eats a mix of fruits (such as figs and other soft berries) and small invertebrates including beetles, caterpillars, and other insects. It gleans from foliage and twigs and occasionally hawks short distances to snatch flying insects. Opportunistically visits fruiting trees in plantations and gardens and may sip nectar.
Preferred Environment
Forest edges, riparian thickets, mangroves, secondary growth, and cultivated areas with tall fruiting trees. Frequently forages along rivers and streams where dense cover is available.
