White-eared Bulbul

The White-eared Bulbul is a smart, medium-sized songbird with a black head and throat set off by a prominent, crisp white patch covering the ear coverts -- the feature that gives the species its name. The body is a soft brownish-grey, and the undertail coverts (vent) glow bright yellow, a splash of color against the otherwise muted plumage.

A highly vocal and confiding bird, it is a familiar sight in gardens, parks, and semi-arid scrub across the Middle East and parts of South Asia, often seen in pairs perched prominently and calling.

Key field marks

• Black head and throat with a bold white patch covering the ear coverts
• Brownish-grey body plumage, bright yellow undertail coverts (vent)
• Slim build without a prominent crest
• Frequently seen in pairs, perching conspicuously

Similar species

The Himalayan (White-cheeked) Bulbul has a black crest and a smaller white cheek patch restricted mainly below the eye, plus a yellow vent similar in tone. The Red-vented Bulbul lacks the white ear patch entirely and shows a red (not yellow) vent.

Range

Found from the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East east through Iran, Pakistan, and north-western India.

Habitat

Adaptable to gardens, parks, semi-arid scrub, oases, and urban areas, often near water in otherwise dry landscapes.

Migration

Largely resident, with limited local movements.

Behavior

Sociable and confiding, typically seen in pairs or small groups, often perching in the open on shrubs, wires, or garden trees.

Voice

A cheerful, bubbly chattering song, along with sharp call notes, frequently heard around gardens and settlements.

Feeding

Feeds mainly on fruit, berries, and nectar, supplemented with insects; readily visits gardens with fruiting shrubs and flowering trees.

Nesting and breeding

Builds a cup nest of twigs and grass in a bush or small tree. Lays 2-3 eggs, with both parents helping to feed the young.