The stripe-throated bulbul, or streak-throated bulbul, is a species of songbird in the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found in south-eastern Asia where its natural habitats are tropical moist lowland forest and tropical moist montane forest. It is a common species and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has assessed it as being of "least concern".
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Myanmar and Thailand through Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, with populations extending into the Thai–Malay Peninsula. It inhabits tropical moist lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, bamboo stands, and secondary growth. The species also uses scrubby clearings, riverine woodland, and plantations near forest. It tolerates moderate disturbance and may be seen in parks and orchards adjacent to natural habitat.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This bulbul favors forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets, often venturing into orchards and gardens. The fine dark streaking on its pale throat distinguishes it from similar yellow-vented and streak-eared bulbuls. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks and adapts well to lightly disturbed habitats. Despite habitat loss in parts of its range, it remains common and is assessed as Least Concern.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Territorial during breeding season, with pairs building neat cup nests in low shrubs or small trees. Both sexes participate in nest defense and provisioning of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of mellow, fluty whistles interspersed with chatters and trills. Calls include sharp chups and lively contact notes used to keep groups together.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with yellow-olive underparts and a pale throat finely streaked with dark lines. The vent and undertail coverts are bright yellow, with slightly paler belly. Feathers appear smooth with subtle gloss on the head and mantle. Tail is moderately long with darker centers and paler edging.
Diet
Takes a variety of small fruits and berries, including figs, as well as soft-bodied insects and other invertebrates. Often gleans from foliage and twigs and occasionally sallies to catch flying insects. Will feed on cultivated fruits at edges of orchards and gardens, especially when native fruits are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid-story and canopy of forest edges, bamboo thickets, and secondary growth. Also frequents riverine woodland and agroforestry mosaics near natural cover.
