White-eared Bulbul

The White-eared Bulbul, Pycnonotus leucotis, presents a charming rotund figure, with a predominantly brownish-grey plumage. Its head is adorned with a striking black hue, contrasted by a prominent white patch around the cheeks. This bird's tail is noteworthy for its length and tapering shape, starting in black and finishing with white tips. A bright yellow vent adds a splash of color to its otherwise muted tones.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the White-eared Bulbul, look for the large white spot on the cheek area, which is a distinctive feature. The bird's eye rings are bare, and it sports a short beak. The contrast between the black head and the white cheek patch, along with the yellow vent, are key identifiers.

Habitat

The White-eared Bulbul is known to inhabit a range of environments across south-western Asia, from urban landscapes to the wilder terrains of India and the Arabian Peninsula.

Distribution

This species is native to the western regions of India, extending across Pakistan, southern Afghanistan, and coastal Iran. Its range also encompasses the Tigris-Euphrates river basin in Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The White-eared Bulbul has been introduced to other Persian Gulf nations, including Oman, the UAE, and Qatar.

Behaviour

The White-eared Bulbul is a versatile songster, not bound to a uniform song but rather a repertoire of notes that it weaves into various melodies. Its song, though brief, is often described as pleasant and fluid, a delightful symphony in the avian world.

Conservation Status

As of 2018, the IUCN has classified the White-eared Bulbul as "Least Concern," indicating that the species is not currently at significant risk of extinction. However, it is important to note that there has been a decline in population sizes.

Similar Species

The White-eared Bulbul is part of a superspecies complex that includes the Himalayan Bulbul, White-spectacled Bulbul, African Red-eyed Bulbul, Cape Bulbul, and the Common Bulbul. It was once considered a subspecies of the Himalayan Bulbul.

Subspecies

There are two recognized subspecies of the White-eared Bulbul:

• Arabian White-cheeked Bulbul (P. l. mesopotamia) found in northeastern Arabia, southern Iraq, and southwestern Iran.
• P. l. leucotis, the nominate subspecies, inhabits southern Iran, southern Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwestern India.