The white-browed bulbul is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is a resident breeder in Sri Lanka and peninsular India. Largely olive coloured above with whitish underparts, it has a pale supercilium and a yellow vent. They are found in dense scrub habitats, where they skulk within vegetation and can be difficult to see although their loud and distinct burst of calls is distinctive.
Region
South Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs across peninsular India and in Sri Lanka, favoring dry scrub, thorn forest, and edges of dry deciduous woodland. It also uses secondary growth, hedgerows, gardens, and plantations where dense undergrowth is present. Birds keep close to cover, moving between bushes and low trees. In Sri Lanka, it is more common in the dry zone and intermediate areas than in wet evergreen forests.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This bulbul is a skulker of thorny scrub and dry woodland, but its ringing, bubbly calls often reveal it before it is seen. It plays an important role in seed dispersal by consuming a variety of berries and small fruits. The bold white eyebrow and yellow vent help separate it from other common bulbuls in its range. It typically nests low in dense shrubs, constructing a neat cup from fibers and spider silk.
Temperament
skulking yet active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between bushes
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed flocks in fruiting trees. Breeding pairs build a neat cup nest low in dense shrubs or small trees and lay 2–3 eggs. Both sexes participate in nesting and feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, musical bursts of whistles and chattering phrases delivered from within cover or a low perch. Calls are clear, repetitive, and carry well, often given in quick series interspersed with scolding notes.
