Flame-throated Bulbul

 

 

The Flame-throated Bulbul, (Pycnonotus gularis), is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found in southwest India.

Identification
19cm Very short erectile crest Orange-scarlet throat-patch Glossy black head Orange-yellow breast Bright olive tail, rounded, with small whitish corner-tips
Sexes similar
This is a bird of forest and dense scrub. It builds its nest in a bush; two to four eggs is a typical clutch. The Flame-throated Bulbul feeds on fruit and insects. It is virtually crestless, has an orange-red throat and whitish eyes.
Distribution Endemic to south-western India (western Karnataka to Kerala and Tamil Nadu) Locally common .

Taxonomy

 This is a monotypic species. It was formerly included in Black-crested Bulbul.

Habitat

 Evergreen foothill forest, thorny bamboo brakes, lantana thickets

Behaviour
Often seen in small parties in fruiting trees and shrubs with other bulbuls. Usually delivers its slurred song from low branches or telephone wires in bamboo groves and at hill stations.

Breeding
 It builds its nest in a bush; the clutch consisting of 2-4 eggs.

Diet
The diet includes fruit and insects