The Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus) is a bird from north-eastern, northern, western and central Africa. The Pycnonotus barbatus tricolor and the Pycnonotus barbatus dodsoni are native to north and east Kenya.

The Common Bulbul has a dark-brown head with lighter brown body feathers, with white underparts. Its beak, legs, and feet are black. Its eyes are dark-brown with a dark eye-ring. Its beak is short and thin, curving slightly downward. It has a long tail with yellow feathers under its tail.

Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus dodsoni)

It is about 18 centimetres (7 inches) tall.

It prefers woodlands, coastal bushlands, and forest edges, as well as gardens and parks. It eats fruit, seeds, and insects.

The Common Bulbul is usually seen in pairs or small groups.

It builds a cup-shaped nest in a small tree or shrub. Females lay 2-3 speckled eggs.

Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus dodsoni)

Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus dodsoni)

Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus tricolor)

Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus tricolor)

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM