Square-tailed Black Bulbul

If you spend any time in the lush hills of Kandy or the Sinharaja rainforest, you are likely to hear a Square-tailed Black Bulbul before you see one. Known for their "rockstar" aesthetics and boisterous attitudes, these birds are the loud, social neighbors of the Sri Lankan canopy. A Striking Silhouette: As seen in the photo, the most defining feature of this species is the brilliant coral-red beak and matching legs, which pop against their smoky, slate-grey plumage. Unlike many other bulbuls that sport neat, rounded heads, the Square-tailed Black Bulbul has a messy, shaggy black crest. This "bedhead" look, combined with a slightly forked, square-tipped tail, gives them a silhouette that is unmistakable even from a distance. Life in the Canopy: These birds are high-energy foragers. They aren't shy; they often move in small, noisy groups, hopping through the upper branches of trees in search of: # Berries and Fruits: They are vital seed dispersers for the forest. # Nectar: You might spot them with yellow pollen on their faces after raiding a flowering tree. # Insects: Occasionally, they will perform "aerial sallies," darting out into the air to catch a fly mid-flight. Why Are They So Loud? The bird in your photo has its beak wide open, likely letting out one of its signature calls. They don't have a traditional "sweet" song. Instead, they produce a series of nasal, cat-like mewing sounds, loud chirps, and sharp grating calls. In Sri Lankan folklore and local birding circles, they are often nicknamed for these eccentric vocalizations. At a Glance: Fast Facts Scientific Name : Hypsipetes ganeesa humii Local Name: Kalu Kondaya (Sinhala) Status: Common resident in the wet zone and hills in Sri Lanka. Best Time to See: Early morning when they are most active and vocal.