The Visayan bulbul or Steere's bulbul, is a songbird species in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae.
Region
Central Philippines (Western Visayas)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Visayan islands, notably Negros, Panay, and Guimaras, with records on nearby small islets. It inhabits lowland to lower montane tropical broadleaf forest, forest edges, and secondary growth. The species frequently uses riparian strips, brushy hillsides, and plantations with scattered native trees. It tolerates degraded habitats better than many forest specialists but remains most numerous where forest cover persists.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called Steere's bulbul, it is endemic to the central Philippines and was formerly treated as part of the Philippine bulbul complex. It readily uses secondary growth and forest edges, which helps it persist in heavily altered landscapes. Bulbuls are important seed dispersers, moving the seeds of many native fruiting trees. Its taxonomy has been refined through vocal, genetic, and distributional differences from related island forms.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups, and commonly joins mixed-species flocks when foraging. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees. Both parents typically participate in rearing the young, and birds defend small territories around nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively, varied series of chattering whistles and fluty notes, delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include sharp chips and scolding chatter when alarmed, with more musical phrases during the early morning.
