Red-Whiskered Bulbul

birds · Asia · fruit-eaters · tropical

Fancy red cheeks. This bird has bright red patches under its eyes and on its cheeks that look like whiskers, which is how it got its name. It also sports a tall, pointed crest on its head that makes it look extra fancy.

Loud and proud. Red-whiskered bulbuls make a loud three or four note call that you can hear from far away. They're not shy birds and love to perch right out in the open on trees where everyone can see them.

Fruit lovers. These birds are frugivores, meaning they mostly eat fruits and berries. They also snack on small insects, making them helpful for gardens and forests by spreading seeds around.

Traveled around the world. The red-whiskered bulbul originally lived only in tropical Asia, but people brought them to other warm places around the world. In these new homes, the birds have done so well that they've created their own wild populations.

Comfortable anywhere. These adaptable birds feel at home in both wild hill forests and busy urban gardens where there are trees and fruit to eat.