Asia is home to the crested bulbul, also known as the red-whiskered bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus). It belongs to the bulbul family. Tropical Asia is home to this native frugivore. Numerous tropical regions of the world have seen its introduction, and populations have grown there. It perches boldly on trees, eats on fruits and small insects, and makes a loud three- or four-note call. It is prevalent in urban gardens and highland woods.
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Sharp Eyes The bulbul perches, quietly scanning its surroundings.
In southern India, the breeding season lasts from December to May, while in northern India, it lasts from March to October. Once or twice a year, breeding may take place. The male’s courtship display includes drooping wings, spreading the tail, and bending the head. Meanwhile, the bird builds its cup-shaped nest atop tiny trees, bushes, or thatched walls. Additionally, it adorns the nest with large items like bark strips, paper, or plastic bags and braids it using delicate twigs, roots, and grasses. Usually, clutches hold two or three eggs.
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Guarding Nest Sitting on her nest, keeping a watchful eye.
Adults, possibly the female, fake an injury to divert predators from the nest. Meanwhile, the eggs’ ground color is a light mauve, and as they get closer to the broad end, the speckles turn into blotches. Typically, the eggs measure 16 mm in width and 21 mm in length. After 12 days, the eggs hatch. During this time, both parents raise the young. As they grow older, fruits and berries gradually replace the insects and caterpillars that young birds eat. Additionally, the females have down only in their pterylae, making them psilopaedic. However, crows and larger coucals may prey on the eggs and chicks.
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