About Pycnonotus penicillatus Blyth, 1851
The yellow-eared bulbul, scientifically named Pycnonotus penicillatus Blyth, 1851, is approximately 20 cm (7.9 in) long, with a long tail. It has olive-colored upperparts and yellowish underparts. Its head crown is grey, with yellow ear tufts and a yellow patch below the eye. There is a white tuft in front of the eye, and its throat is also white. Males and females have similar plumage, but young yellow-eared bulbuls are duller in color than adults. Their flight is bouncing and similar to the flight of a woodpecker. This species is endemic to Sri Lanka, and is the least common bulbul found on the island. It inhabits jungle areas and wooded farmland. Even though its range is restricted, it is quite easily found at locations including Horton Plains, Piduruthalagala peak, Moonplains and Victoria Park in Nuwara Eliya, and is frequently sighted in rocky hills. Yellow-eared bulbuls build open, cup-shaped nests in bushes, using materials such as roots and lichen. A typical clutch contains two eggs. Their breeding season usually runs from February to May, with a second breeding period from August to October. They feed on fruit and insects.
