The yellow-eared bulbul is a species of songbird in the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is an endemic resident breeder in the highlands of Sri Lanka. The common name is also used as an alternate name for the yellow-throated bulbul.
Region
Sri Lankan Central Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane and submontane forests, forest edges, tea estates, gardens, and shrublands across the Central Highlands. It is especially regular in areas like Horton Plains, the Knuckles Range, and around Nuwara Eliya. The species uses dense foliage for nesting and cover but frequently ventures into open clearings to feed. It tolerates moderate habitat alteration, provided there is nearby tree and shrub cover.
Altitude Range
900–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The yellow-eared bulbul is a highland specialist found only in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands. It adapts well to forest edges, gardens, and tea estates, often foraging boldly near people. Its bright yellow ear patches make it one of the most distinctive bulbuls on the island. The common name is sometimes confused with the yellow-throated bulbul, a different species from India.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks in forest edges. Builds a neat cup-shaped nest low in shrubs or small trees, typically laying two eggs. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties, remaining attentive around the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of ringing whistles and sweet chipping notes, delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp scolds and rapid chatter when alarmed or interacting within small groups.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler underparts and a clean whitish throat. Head grayish with a contrasting dark crown and striking, elongated yellow ear coverts that form a small ‘ear-tuft’. The vent and undertail often show yellow tones; wings and tail are dusky with olive edging.
Diet
Takes a wide variety of small fruits and berries, including figs and other native shrubs. Regularly gleans insects, caterpillars, and other arthropods from foliage and branches. Will occasionally sip nectar and may take small seeds, especially near gardens and plantations.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, tea estates, and wooded gardens where fruiting shrubs are abundant. Often feeds at mid-levels but also descends to low shrubs and hedges.
