Birdsong field guide
Red-whiskered Bulbul
Pycnonotus jocosus
A medium-sized passerine easily identified by its tall, forward-pointing black crest and vivid red patches behind the eyes. Native to Asia, it has become a successful urban colonizer in many parts of the world.
What it sounds like
A cheerful, fluid, and musical three or four-note whistle often transcribed as 'pity-to-eat'.
Field notes
- The signature red 'whiskers' are small tufts of feathers located just below the eye, which are absent in juveniles.
- It possesses a bright orange-red patch under the base of the tail, known as the vent or subcaudal coverts.
- The species is highly social and often seen in small groups, even when nesting in close proximity to human dwellings.
- Though primarily frugivorous, they are skilled at 'hawking' insects from the air and drinking nectar from tropical flowers.
- Due to their popularity in the pet trade, feral populations have established in non-native regions including Florida, Hawaii, and Australia.
Habitat
Open forests, scrubland, orchards, and well-vegetated urban gardens.
Range
Native to South and Southeast Asia; introduced to North America, Australia, and various oceanic islands.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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