Order Passeriformes Higher classification Pycnonotus | Phylum Chordata Family Pycnonotidae Scientific name Pycnonotus leucotis Rank Species | |
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Similar Bird, Bulbul, Pycnonotus, Red‑vented bulbul, Streak‑eared bulbul | ||
Magic white eared bulbul
The white-eared bulbul (Pycnonotus leucotis), or white-cheeked bulbul, is a member of the bulbul family. It is found in south-western Asia from India to the Arabian peninsula.
Contents
- Magic white eared bulbul
- White eared bulbul song
- Taxonomy and systematics
- Subspecies
- Description
- References
White eared bulbul song
Taxonomy and systematics
The white-eared bulbul was originally described in the genus Ixos. The white-eared bulbul is considered to belong to a superspecies along with the Himalayan bulbul, white-spectacled bulbul, African red-eyed bulbul, Cape bulbul, and the common bulbul. Formerly, some authorities considered the white-eared bulbul to be a subspecies of the Himalayan Bulbul. The alternate name, white-cheeked bulbul, is also used by the Himalayan bulbul. In Iran it is sometimes referred to as "the bulbul of Tehran".
Subspecies
Two subspecies are recognized:
Description
This species is very similar in appearance to the Himalayan white-cheeked bulbul but smaller and uncrested, and with a larger white cheek patch. It has a pale bare eye-ring. The vent is orange yellow. Sexes are alike.
It is found in scrub forest and gardenland. Also found in flocks or pairs in the mangroves, gorging on the fruits of the Meswak bush. Usually seen in pairs or small groups. It feeds on fruits and insects, and breeds in March–June.