Xavier's greenbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found in central Africa. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Central Africa
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical forests, including both moist lowland and drier forest types. It favors dense understory and midstory layers, forest edges, riverine thickets, and secondary growth. The species often persists in selectively logged areas provided sufficient shrub and vine tangles remain. It avoids very open habitats but may forage along shaded tracks and clearings near forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Xavier's greenbul is a shy understory songbird that often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. It thrives in dense foliage and can be surprisingly tolerant of secondary growth and forest edges. Its soft, whistled phrases carry through the midstory, making it easier to detect by ear than by sight.
Temperament
secretive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small family groups moving through dense understory. Frequently associates with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Builds a cup-shaped nest low in shrubs or saplings within dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, fluty whistles interspersed with short chattering notes. Calls include thin contact notes used to keep in touch while moving through foliage.
Plumage
Dull olive-green upperparts with a slightly browner tone on the wings and tail; underparts are paler olive to yellowish-olive with a cleaner, whitish throat.
Diet
Takes small arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and spiders gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes small fruits and berries when available, especially during seasonal flushes. Occasionally hawks short distances to snatch flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understory and midstory of dense forest, along thickets, vine tangles, and edges. Often works methodically through foliage, probing curled leaves and dead leaf clusters.
