This endearing bird sports white “horns” that gracefully protrude from the base of its bill, adding to its unique and captivating appearance.
Meet the Yellow-eared bulbul:
“yellow-eared bulbul” by desertnaturalist is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
The yellow-eared bulbul (Pycnonotus penicillatus), measures approximately 20 cm (7.9 in) in length, boasting a gracefully elongated tail. Its upperparts exhibit an enchanting olive hue, while the underparts emanate a warm yellowish glow. The crown of its head is adorned with a subtle grey, accentuated by distinctive yellow ear tufts and a captivating yellow patch beneath the eye. A pristine white tuft graces the area in front of its eye, and its throat also gleams white.
“Yellow-eared Bulbul near Sinharaja” by Sandhillcrane is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. (cropped)
Males and females display a similar plumage, although young individuals tend to showcase slightly muted colors compared to the vibrant adults.
Their flight is characterized by a lively, woodpecker-like bouncing motion.
“File:Pycnonotus penicillatus 3.jpg” by Lip Kee Yap from Singapore, Republic of Singapore is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
This delightful species is an exclusive resident breeder found in the highlands of the stunning island of Sri Lanka. In some regions, it is also referred to as the yellow-throated bulbul, a testament to its vibrant plumage.
“Yellow-eared Bulbul” by Thimindu is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. (cropped)
This endearing bird’s habitat is strictly confined to the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, and among the island’s bulbul inhabitants, it holds the distinction of being the rarest. Its favored locales include jungle expanses and wooded farmlands. Despite its limited distribution, bird enthusiasts can often spot it in renowned sites like Horton Plains, Piduruthalagala peak, Moonplains, and Victoria Park in Nuwara Eliya. Additionally, sightings on rocky hills have not been uncommon.
Photo courtesy of Gihan Jayaweera/CC BY-SA 3.0
Their diet consists of a delectable mix of fruit and insects.
“yellow-eared bulbul” by Christoph Moning is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
When it comes to nesting, yellow-eared bulbuls skillfully construct their homes in bushes, typically laying two eggs in a standard clutch. Nests take on an open and cup-shaped structure, incorporating materials like roots and lichen. Breeding season typically unfolds in two distinct periods, from February to May and again during August to October.
“yellow-eared bulbul” by William Stephens is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
This bird is regarded as of least concern on the IUCN red list.
“yellow-eared bulbul” by William Stephens is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Watch this bird in action:
