じっとりとした暑さの中でも清涼感ある澄んだ口笛のような声を響かせ、熱帯の空気感に涼やかで心地よい彩りを添える。 果実を好むが、ときに蜂を捕食するために花の群生地周辺に姿を現すこともある。芳しい香りの中、軽やかなリズムで繰り返す鳴き声は、人々にとって親しみ深い音風景となっている。
Resident in East Asia (China, Taiwan, Hainan, Hong Kong; introduced in some Pacific islands)
スズメ目 Passeriformes / ヒヨドリ科 Pycnonotidae / シロガシラ属 Pycnonotus
Read in English — ✴︎ Light-vented Bulbul
The Light-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis), also known as the Chinese Bulbul, measures about 18–20 cm in length and is widely distributed across southern China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Hainan Island.
Favoring areas close to human settlements, it is often seen in urban parks, farmlands, and neighborhood gardens. Its Japanese name, “Shirogashira” (literally “white head”), comes from its distinctive white crown, while the subtle olive tones across its otherwise monochrome plumage add a striking accent.
Even in the heavy, humid heat, it fills the air with clear, flute-like whistles that bring a refreshing touch to the tropical atmosphere. While it mainly feeds on fruits, it will sometimes appear around flowering shrubs to catch bees. Amid the fragrance of blossoms, its rhythmic, cheerful calls create a familiar soundscape cherished by people in the region.