The yellow-bellied bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found on the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, primarily in primary and well-structured secondary lowland evergreen forests. It favors dense, shaded understory near streams and forest edges, and also uses peat swamp and riparian forest. The species is typically absent from heavily degraded open areas and rarely ascends into montane zones. It may persist in selectively logged forests if sufficient cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy bulbul frequents the shaded understory and midstory of lowland rainforests and often joins mixed-species flocks. It feeds on small fruits and invertebrates, helping disperse seeds across the forest. Its clear, whistled phrases carry softly through dense foliage. Habitat loss in lowland forests can impact local populations despite its broad range.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs within territories, and commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low to mid-level in shrubs or small trees. Pairs are presumed monogamous with small clutches typical of bulbuls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, mellow whistles delivered in short phrases, often from concealed perches. Calls include soft chaks and scolding notes when alarmed.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a dusky to gray-olive head and slightly bushy crest; underparts bright yellow from throat to belly, becoming paler toward the vent.
Diet
Feeds on small fruits and berries, including figs, and supplements its diet with insects and other small invertebrates. It gleans prey from foliage and twigs and occasionally sallies for flying insects. By consuming fruit, it acts as a seed disperser for many forest plants.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understory and midstory of intact and lightly disturbed lowland rainforest, especially along streams and forest edges. It avoids open country and tends to remain within dense cover.
