Common Bulbul or African Red-Eyed Bulbul?
Here's how to tell the difference
Common Bulbul
African Red-Eyed Bulbul
Common Bulbul
Pycnonotus barbatus
Also known as: Black-Eyed Bulbul, Brown Bulbul, Brown-Capped Geelgat, Common Garden Bulbul, Garden Bulbul, White-Vented Bulbul
General appearance
The common bulbul, or Pycnonotus barbatus, is a small passerine bird characterized by a compact body, short neck, and long tail. Its primary coloration is a drab brown on the wings and back, transitioning to a lighter shade on the underparts. The bird has a striking black head, complemented by a patch of yellow under its tail and a thin white eye ring.
Male vs female
Males and females of the common bulbul have very similar appearances, making them difficult to distinguish in the wild. Both have the same size and coloration, with no prominent sexual dimorphism. However, during breeding season, male bulbuls often display more aggressive and distinctive behaviors, such as competitive singing and aerial displays.
Juvenile
Juvenile common bulbuls are similar in appearance to the adults, but generally bear a softer, duller coloration. Their feather edges may also be slightly fluffier and less defined than in mature individuals. Over time, as they mature, their coloring gradually darkens to match that of adults.
Size
5.9 - 7.9 in/1.0 - 1.7 oz
There's more to learn about Common Bulbul
View full detailsAfrican Red-Eyed Bulbul
Pycnonotus nigricans
Also known as: Black-Fronted Bulbul
General appearance
The African red-eyed bulbul is characterized by its medium size, nearly 20-25 cm in length, and its distinctive khaki-grey plumage. Easily noticeable are its crimson-red eyes, which aptly offers its name. It also has a distinct thin black crest above its eyes, giving it a capped appearance. Its tail and wings are darker, almost black. This species does not have significant seasonal variations.
Male vs female
Both male and female African red-eyed bulbuls share similar external features, making sexual dimorphism in this species less distinct. The males tend to be slightly larger in size compared to females. However, their coloration, red eye, and capped appearance are consistent across both genders. This feature makes it a bit challenging to distinguish between the sexes in the wild.
Juvenile
Juvenile African red-eyed bulbuls lack the vibrant coloration seen in adults. They have duller grey-brown plumage and their eyes are not yet the characteristic red, instead they have brownish eyes. Their crest is less pronounced, and it takes a few months until they acquire the distinctive adult features.
Size
7.5 - 8.3 in/0.8 - 1.3 oz
There's more to learn about African Red-Eyed Bulbul
View full detailsHow to tell the Common Bulbul from the African Red-Eyed Bulbul
Visual differences
The Common Bulbul is smaller, measuring about 6-8 inches long and weighing 1-1.75 ounces, whereas the African Red-Eyed Bulbul is slightly larger, at 7.5-8.5 inches long, weighing 0.75-1.3 ounces. The Common Bulbul has a drab brown body with a black head and a yellow undertail, alongside a thin white eye ring. In contrast, the African Red-Eyed Bulbul sports khaki-grey plumage, crimson-red eyes, and a distinct thin black crest. The more pronounced black tail and wing coloration further set the African Red-Eyed Bulbul apart.
Key differences and behavior
The Common Bulbul and African Red-Eyed Bulbul exhibit distinct behavioral traits useful for field identification beyond appearance. The Common Bulbul, known for its energetic and noisy demeanor, often sings prominently from high perches, engaging in competitive vocal displays during mating. It thrives in open woodlands and adapts well to human-modified environments, feeding on fruits, insects, and nectar. In contrast, the African Red-Eyed Bulbul, favoring arid scrublands and riverine woodlands, often associates in pairs or small groups and is drawn to water sources. Its courtship involves elaborate flight displays. This species primarily consumes fruits, seeds, and insects, showing a preference for sweeter foods. Both species are adaptable to urban settings and involve both parents in chick-rearing, but the Common Bulbul is more aggressive during mating, whereas the African Red-Eyed Bulbul displays a marked affinity for water and group interactions.
Still not sure? Here are more lookalikes!
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African Red-Eyed Bulbul vs White-Spectacled Bulbul
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