The Toro olive greenbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found in southern South Sudan and from eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo through Uganda to western Kenya and northern Tanzania. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. The Toro olive greenbul was originally described in the genus Stelgidillas. Alternate names for the Toro olive greenbul include the Toro greenbul and Toro olive bulbul.
Region
East Africa and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern South Sudan and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo through Uganda to western Kenya and northwestern Tanzania. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, riverine forest, forest edges, and well-wooded secondary growth. The species typically forages in dense undergrowth and midstory, where it remains well concealed. It tolerates some habitat disturbance if shrub and vine tangles persist.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for Uganda’s Tooro (Toro) region, this unobtrusive bulbul skulked its way through taxonomic history, having first been described in the genus Stelgidillas before settling in Phyllastrephus. It often joins mixed-species flocks, gleaning insects from foliage and taking small fruits, which helps control arthropods and disperse seeds. Its coloration is subtle, so it’s more often detected by voice than by sight.
Temperament
secretive and wary, yet frequently joins mixed flocks
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, often accompanying mixed-species foraging flocks. Likely monogamous, with a cup-shaped nest placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation. Both parents typically participate in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow, whistled notes interspersed with soft chattering phrases. Calls include sharp chips and thin seet notes that carry through the undergrowth.
