Common Bulbul

Overview

The common bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus) is a passerine bird that is widespread throughout most of Africa, excluding very arid areas, and has recently begun breeding in southernmost Spain. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with ten subspecies recognised based on geographical variations in plumage.

Identification

• Measures 18–20 cm in length with a long tail; males are on average larger than females.
• Dark brown head and brown upperparts contrasting with dull grey underparts.
• Features a short, thin bill with a slightly downwards curving upper mandible; the bill, legs, feet, and eye are all black.
• The call is described as a loud 'doctor-quick doctor-quick be-quick be-quick'.

Habitat

Found in woodland, coastal bush, forest edges, riverine bush, montane scrub, mixed farming habitats, exotic thickets, gardens, and parks. It is a common resident breader in much of Africa, with populations in southern Spain at Tarifa.

Diet

The common bulbul mostly eats fruit, but its diet also includes nectar, insects, and seeds.

Did you know?

The scientific name Pycnonotus barbatus is derived from Greek and Latin roots meaning 'compact-backed' and 'bearded', while the species was originally described in 1789 as a thrush in the genus Turdus.