
White-Browed Bulbul
Pycnonotus luteolus
About This Species
Keeps to dense scrub, hedgerows, and dry forest undergrowth across India and Sri Lanka, more often heard than seen as it forages low down for insects and small fruit. Its harsh, chattering call given from cover is usually the first sign of its presence, and patience near dense thickets is often needed for a clear view. Early morning, when it is most vocal and active, offers the best chance of a sighting.
Ethical Viewing Guidelines
- Because it is a shy, low-cover species, watching quietly from a short distance without pushing into the scrub itself gives the best results and avoids driving it deeper into cover.
- Wild bird protection laws apply in both India and Sri Lanka, though the specific provisions differ between the two countries, so local regulations should be checked.
- Avoid using recorded calls repeatedly to draw a skulking bird out, since this can cause unnecessary stress.
LCAvesPasseriformesPycnonotidae
Seasonal Activity
227,781 sightings · 2000–2026
Citizen science records via GBIF
All monthsThis month
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Aves
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Pycnonotidae
Photo
(c) antonygrossy, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by antonygrossy
CC-BY-NC-4.0
Occurrence data from GBIF.