African red-eyed bulbul facts for kids

Quick facts for kids African red-eyed bulbul
P. n. nigricans Damaraland, Namibia
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
resident, nomadic and migratory range
Synonyms
Turdus nigricans

The African red-eyed bulbul or black-fronted bulbul (Pycnonotus nigricans) is a species of songbird in the family Pycnonotidae. It is found in south-western Africa. Its natural habitats are dry savanna, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and riverine scrub. It feeds on fruit (including Ficus), flowers, nectar, and insects.

Description

The African red-eyed bulbul ranges from 19 to 21 centimeters (7-8 inches) in length and weighs 30-48 grams (1-1.7 ounces). Its call is a series of loud fluty notes, usually given only by the male.

Taxonomy and systematics

The African red-eyed bulbul was originally described in the genus Turdus. The African red-eyed bulbul is considered to belong to a superspecies along with the Himalayan bulbul, white-eared bulbul, white-spectacled bulbul, Cape bulbul, and the common bulbul. The alternate name of 'red-eyed bulbul' is also used by the Asian red-eyed bulbul.

Subspecies

Two subspecies are recognized:

• P. n. nigricans – (Vieillot, 1818): Found in south-western Angola, Namibia and Botswana and western South Africa
• P. n. superior – Clancey, 1959: Found in central South Africa

Gallery

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  P. n. nigricans; communal bathing at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, with one or two keeping watch

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  Nominate race at Etosha N. P., showing relatively pale breast plumage

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  The easterly P. n. subsp. superior, with darker breast and mantle plumage

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  Group of African red-eyed bulbuls in Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Botswana

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  African red-eyed bulbul in Okaukuejo, Etosha National Park, Namibia