Black-capped bulbul

The black-capped bulbul, (Pycnonotus melanicterus), is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. Once thought it is found in Indian Subcontinent, but now it is accepted that endemic to the island of Sri Lanka.

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 black-capped bulbul feeds on fruit and insects. Found in forests, wooded areas and in gardens. Usually found in pairs.

Description

It is virtually crestless, has a yellow throat and brownish eyes. Yellowish green above, yellow below. Tail is brownish and ending in a white tip. Male has red irides, and female has brown irides.

In culture

In Sri Lanka, this bird is known as Hisa kalu Kondaya - හිස කලු කොන්ඩයා in Sinhala language.

References

• Rasmussen, P.C., and J.C. Anderton. 2005. Birds of South Asia. The Ripley guide. Volume 2: attributes and status. Smithsonian Institution and Lynx Edicions, Washington D.C. and Barcelona.

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