Yellow-throated Bulbul

Overview

The yellow-throated bulbul (Pycnonotus xantholaemus) is a species of songbird in the bulbul family, endemic to southern peninsular India. This uncrested passerine is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, although its hilly habitats face significant threats from granite quarrying and other human activities.

Identification

• Olive grey plumage above with a distinct yellow throat, undertail coverts, and tail tips.
• Grey wash on the breast and belly with a plain head.
• Very similar calls to the white-browed bulbul, often detected through sudden cackling outbursts rather than visual confirmation.
• Males and females are similar in appearance.

Habitat

This species inhabits rocky, scrub-covered hills primarily in the Eastern Ghats and central peninsular India, with some presence in the Western Ghats. Its distribution is highly fragmented and localised, often found in areas threatened by granite quarrying, forest fires, and grazing. Notable locations include Nandi Hills, Horsley Hills, Gingee, and Yercaud.

Diet

It feeds on insects and the berries of various scrub plant species, including Lantana camara, Flueggea leucopyrus, and Ficus species. During hot afternoons and the dry season, the bird visits pools of water to drink and bathe.

Did you know?

The bird is usually shy and hidden within scrub, meaning it is often detected by its sudden cackling calls rather than by sight.