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Pycnonotus leucogenys (Himalayan Bulbul)
Venue: Sungdung, Rongli, East Sikkim
Date: January 6, 2014
Pic: Swarup Rai
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The Himalayan Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucogenys), also called the White-cheeked Bulbul or Himalayan Bulbul, is a small bird from the Pycnonotidae family. It belongs to the Passeriformes order (perching birds) and is part of the Pycnonotus genus.
Found in the Himalayan
mountains across India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Afghanistan, this bird
enjoys forests, gardens, and hillsides, where its chirping adds a musical note
to the mountain air.
This bird is around 18 cm long and is known for its striking appearance. It features a black face and throat with a white cheek spot and a yellow vent. Its most distinctive feature is a mohawk-like crest on its head, setting it apart from other birds.
Its white-tipped tail fans out
beautifully as it flies. Often found in small groups, these active birds hop around,
chirping cheerfully to one another.
Besides its beauty, the
Himalayan Bulbul is helpful to the environment. It eats insects and fruits and helps to keep nature in balance. This little bird truly brightens its
mountain home!