The Zamboanga bulbul (Hypsipetes rufigularis) is a songbird species in the bulbul family, Pycnonotidae. It is endemic to the Philippines, where its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests of Basilan and the Zamboanga Peninsula. It is becoming rare due to habitat loss.[1]
EBird describes the bird as "A medium-sized bird of foothill forest and edge in western Mindanao and on adjacent islands. Dark brown above with a grayish-brown streaked crown, a white belly, white under the base of the tail, and a warm reddish-brown throat, cheek, and chest. Note the strong black bill. Somewhat similar to Yellow-wattled Bulbul, but lacks the crest and the obvious yellow eye-ring. Voice includes a loud, pulsing “picha! picha! picha!” followed by medium-pitched warbling."[2]
The Zamboanga bulbul was originally described in the genus Hypsipetes and later placed in the genus Ixos. Formerly, some authorities classified the Zamboanga bulbul in the genus Iole and also considered it to be a subspecies of the Philippine bulbul. In 2010, it was returned to the genus Hypsipetes.[3] It is differentiated by its much larger size and lack of streaking on its throat.
Often observed visiting and feeding on fruiting trees. Pressumed to supplement diet with insects.
Nothing is known about its reproductive behaviour.[4]
Found in primary and mature secondary forest. It is most common in intact forest. [5]
IUCN has assessed this bird as a near-threatened due to its smaller range. It is still relatively conmmon but forests in the Philippines have experienced rapid habitat destruction.
Found in the protected area of Pasonanca Natural Park but still continues to experience encroachment. [6]