The streak-eared bulbul is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found from Thailand and northern and central Malay Peninsula to southern Indochina. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from much of Thailand through southern Indochina, reaching into the northern and central Malay Peninsula. It inhabits subtropical to tropical moist lowland forests, secondary growth, bamboo, scrub, orchards, parks, and village edges. Prefers forest margins and degraded woodlands rather than dense interior forest. Often found near watercourses and in mixed agricultural mosaics. Readily enters urban greenspaces where fruiting trees are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The streak-eared bulbul is a medium-sized songbird common in human-modified landscapes, where it frequents gardens, orchards, and forest edges. It often travels in pairs or small groups and helps disperse seeds by consuming a wide variety of fruits. Its understated plumage is offset by a lively, varied song. It is generally tolerant of disturbance and remains common across much of mainland Southeast Asia.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Builds a shallow cup nest in shrubs or small trees; both parents typically attend the nest. Territorial during breeding but tolerant of conspecifics at fruiting trees. Often perches conspicuously to sing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a lively series of clear whistles, chattering phrases, and short trills, often delivered from a mid-canopy perch. Calls include sharp chips and scolding notes when alarmed. Phrases are repeated with slight variations and can carry well in open habitats.
Plumage
Plain olive-brown above with paler, buffy underparts and a lightly streaked throat; the ear-coverts show distinct pale streaking. Plumage is soft and somewhat loose-textured, with minimal cresting. The tail is medium-length with slightly paler edges; vent area is dull and not brightly colored.
Diet
Takes a wide variety of small fruits and berries, including figs and cultivated fruit when available. Supplements with insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. Gleans prey from foliage and twigs and occasionally sallies to catch flying insects. Its fruit-eating habits make it an effective seed disperser.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, in secondary growth, orchards, gardens, and roadside thickets. Often forages in the mid-story to canopy but will come low to fruiting shrubs. Frequently visits fruiting trees in villages and plantations.
