The white-spectacled bulbul is a member of the bulbul family. It is 20–25 cm (7.9–9.8 in) in length with a wingspan of 20–25 cm (7.9–9.8 in). These birds live in fruit plantations, gardens, and cities. It is the most common member of the bulbul family in Israel and Lebanon. In Turkey, it is mainly found in the coastal Mediterranean region, but its range extends from Patara/Gelemiş near Kaş in the west to Türkoğlu in the east. Breeding populations are found from Central and Southern Turkey to Western Syria, Lebanon, Western Jordan, Israel, Sinai and western, central and southern Arabia.
Region
Middle East and Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Turkey through Syria, Lebanon, Israel, the Palestinian Territories, western Jordan, Sinai, and across western, central, and southern Arabia. Common in cities, villages, and agricultural landscapes such as fruit plantations and gardens. Also inhabits scrubby wadis, open woodland edges, and oases in arid zones. Readily occupies areas with year-round food and scattered shrubs or trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Easily recognized by its bold white eye-ring and bright yellow vent, the white-spectacled bulbul thrives in gardens, orchards, and towns across the Middle East. It is an important seed disperser thanks to its fruit-rich diet. Pairs are often conspicuous and vocal, and the species adapts well to human-altered landscapes.
Eggs of Pycnonotus xanthopygos MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups, forming looser flocks outside the breeding season. Builds a small cup nest in shrubs or low trees. Both parents provision the young, and pairs may raise multiple broods where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of mellow, bubbling whistles and chirps delivered frequently from exposed perches. Calls include sharp scolds and contact notes that keep pairs and small groups coordinated.
Plumage
Warm brown to grey-brown upperparts with paler underparts, a darker head, and a bright yellow vent; neat, contrasting white eye-ring gives a 'spectacled' look.
Diet
Feeds largely on soft fruits and berries such as figs, mulberries, and dates, supplemented by nectar and flower parts. Also takes insects and other small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. Will opportunistically sample cultivated fruits and ornamental plantings in urban areas.
Preferred Environment
Forages in gardens, orchards, hedges, and scrubby edges, often moving between trees and low shrubs. Frequently visits fruiting trees and flowering plants and is comfortable feeding near human habitation.
