The yellow-bellied greenbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is found in eastern, southern and west-central Africa. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, and dry savanna.
Region
Eastern, southern and west-central Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies a wide range of wooded habitats including subtropical and tropical dry forests, moist lowland forests, riparian thickets, miombo and mopane woodland edges, and well-vegetated savannas. It favors dense undergrowth, tangles, and forest margins where it forages from low to mid canopy. Common in secondary growth and bushy gardens near natural habitats. Generally avoids open grassland and deep interior of closed-canopy forest, preferring ecotones and edges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This greenbul is a lively, vocal species that often travels in pairs or small family groups through dense thickets and forest edges. Its bright yellow belly and ringing, whistled phrases make it easier to detect by ear than by sight. It adapts well to secondary growth and gardens, and helps disperse seeds by consuming a variety of fruits. Both adults typically share feeding duties at the nest.
Subspecies C. f. occidentalis, illustration by Keulemans, 1881
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks while foraging. Territorial during the breeding season, with duetting or antiphonal songs between mates. Builds a neat cup nest low in dense shrubs or thickets; both adults feed the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud series of clear, ringing whistles and chattering phrases, often delivered in repeated patterns. Pairs may duet, giving alternating notes that carry through woodland edges. Calls include sharp chips and scolds when alarmed.
