Red-whiskered Bulbul

Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)

Regulatory Status: Hawaii Injurious Wildlife (HAR 124). Federal Injurious Wildlife. It is prohibited to release Injurious Species into the wild; transport them to islands or locations within the State where they are not already established; and export into or out of the State.

Prevention and Control Category: None

redwhiskeredbulbulDescription

  • This bird species is around 17 cm (7 in) long. They have a black head and crest, with red patches under the eyes and tail and a white throat, breast and underside; Their wings and back are grey.

  • Male and females look similar

  • The Red-whiskered bulbul is native to India and Burma. They were brought to Hawaii as pets. Wild populations are thought to have resulted from pets possibly escaping or being illegally released in the 1960’s.

Impacts

  • Pest of agriculture and gardens. Feeds on fruits, vegetables, flower buds, and insects.

  • Spreads the seeds of invasive plants, including miconia, ivy gourd, and false kava.

  • Aggressively chases other birds and competes with them for food and space. There is concern that they may compete with native birds where they co-exist.

Distribution

  • Kauai: Not known to be present. All sightings should be reported to KISC or HDOA.

  • Oahu: Present in large numbers island-wide, although somewhat less numerous than red-vented bulbuls. Residents and agencies should prevent transport to neighbor islands.

  • Maui: Not known to be present. All sightings should be reported to MISC or DOFAW.

  • Big Island: Not known to be present. All sightings should be reported to BIISC or HDOA.

What you can do:

If you see this species on Kaua’i, Big Island, Maui, Moloka’i or Lana’i, call 643-PEST and/or visit 643pest.org to report the sighting. 

Additional Information