Ruby-throated bulbul explained

The ruby-throated bulbul (Rubigula dispar), or yellow bulbul, also known as flame throated bulbul is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found on Sumatra, Java, and Bali.

Taxonomy and systematics

The ruby-throated bulbul was originally described in the genus Turdus and later moved to genus Pycnonotus. Pycnonotus was found to be polyphyletic in recent molecular phylogenetic studies and five bulbul species, including the ruby-throated bulbul, moved to Rubigula.^[1] Until 2008, the ruby-throated bulbul was considered as conspecific with the black-capped, black-crested, flame-throated and Bornean bulbuls. Some authorities have considered the ruby-throated bulbul to be a subspecies of the black-capped bulbul.^[2]

Description

It is virtually crestless, has a deep red throat and reddish eyes.

Distribution and habitat

This is a bird of forest and dense scrub.

Behaviour and ecology

It builds its nest in a bush; two to four eggs are a typical clutch. The ruby-throated bulbul feeds on fruit and insects.

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

Notes and References

1. Shakya. Subir B.. Sheldon. Frederick H.. The phylogeny of the world's bulbuls (Pycnonotidae) inferred using a supermatrix approach. Ibis. 159. 3. 2017. 498–509. 0019-1019. 10.1111/ibi.12464. free.
2. Web site: Species Version 1 IOC World Bird List. www.worldbirdnames.org. en-US. 2017-03-11.