Buff-vented Bulbul vs Grey-eyed Bulbul

In short

The Buff-vented Bulbul and Grey-eyed Bulbul are similar in appearance but can be distinguished by their undertail coverts and eye color. Buff-vented Bulbul has pale buff undertail coverts with brown centers, while Grey-eyed Bulbul has a greyish eye and is often detected by its distinctive short, nasal calls.

Identification tips

• Undertail coverts: Look for pale buff undertail coverts with brown centers on Buff-vented Bulbul.
• Eye color: Grey-eyed Bulbul has greyish eyes, a key distinguishing feature.
• Calls: Listen for the short, nasal calls of the Grey-eyed Bulbul.
• Habitat overlap: Be cautious in areas where both species are present, as they share similar habitats.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized bulbuls.

Plumage

Buff-vented Bulbul has pale buff undertail coverts with brown centers. Grey-eyed Bulbul is noted for its greyish eyes and lacks the distinctive buff undertail coverts.

Behaviour

Both species are often found in the middle and upper levels of forests, frequently visiting fruiting and flowering trees. Grey-eyed Bulbul is described as rather shy.

Habitat

Both species inhabit evergreen and mixed deciduous forests. They are often found in similar environments, making habitat a less reliable distinguishing factor.

Voice

Grey-eyed Bulbul is usually detected by its distinctive short, nasal calls. Vocalization is a useful differentiator as Buff-vented Bulbul's calls are not highlighted.