Stripe-throated Bulbul

Pycnonotus finlaysoni

Yellowish-brown bulbul that looks as if a chrysanthemum exploded and plastered itself onto its face. On the rest of the body, yellow is strongest on the wings and tail. Prefers lowland secondary growth and edges (only occasionally and locally into higher foothills), and can be found in forested patches near fields, rivers, and plantations. Does not stray deeply into pristine forests. Like many other edge-dwelling bulbuls, typically forages at middle to lower levels. Song is throaty and melodious.

Identification

The stripe-throated bulbul grows to a length of about 20 cm (8 in). The plumage of both sexes is predominantly dull brown with the exception of the forehead, ear coverts, throat and upper breast which are boldly streaked with yellow. The leading edges of the wings and the outer tail feathers are yellowish, the lower breast and belly are streaked with white, and the area around the vent is yellow. Juveniles are similar to adults but the yellow-colouring is more muted. The song is a rather variable loud, clear sequence of throaty notes.

Taxonomy

Two subspecies are recognized:

Scientific name
Pycnonotus finlaysoni
Authority
Strickland, 1844
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Pycnonotidae
Genus
Pycnonotus

Range and habitat

This bulbul is native to tropical southeastern Asia, where its range includes peninsular Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. It is a woodland bird found in secondary forests, thickets, scrubland, clearings and gardens, at altitudes up to about 1,300 m (4,300 ft).

Migration
Resident species

Behavior

The stripe-throated bulbul is omnivorous, foraging for berries and fruits including banyans and Ficus triangularis, and supplementing these with insects which it takes on the wing or on the ground. Breeding takes place between February and September in Malaysia, the nest being cup-shaped, deep and carefully made.

Conservation

Population trend
stable

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

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