The white-throated greenbul or white-throated bulbul, is a species of passerine bird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is widespread across the African tropical rainforest. It was formerly considered to be conspecific with the Angola greenbul.
Region
West and Central African Rainforest
Typical Environment
Occurs widely through the Congo Basin and adjacent lowland rainforest, including parts of Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and into western Uganda and surrounding areas. It favors primary and mature secondary rainforest but also uses forest edges and well-wooded riverine corridors. Typically keeps to dense foliage from the understorey to mid-canopy, where it forages methodically. It may enter degraded forest where sufficient cover remains.
Altitude Range
0–1700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-throated greenbul is a shy forest songbird that keeps to the understorey and midstory of Africa’s tropical rainforests. It often joins mixed-species flocks, where its soft calls help it stay in contact while foraging. Identification hinges on its contrasting clean white throat set against olive-brown plumage. It was formerly considered conspecific with the Angola greenbul.
Temperament
skulking and cautious
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense foliage
Social Behavior
Typically found singly, in pairs, or in small family groups, and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a neat cup nest in low vegetation or shrubs. Both adults participate in care of the young. Territorial calling is most evident at dawn.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, musical phrases of whistles and chips delivered from cover, often repeated in short sequences. Contact calls are thin and sibilant, aiding cohesion when moving through dense undergrowth.
