ebirdMadagascar Bulbul (Hypsipetes madagascariensis) – A local star with a distinctive crest, this agile and vocal bulbul slips through the branches of the garden, brightening our ornithological garden by its presence. A true symbol of Malagasy urban nature, located very close to the airport.
What does it look like?
The Madagascar Bulbul is easily recognized by its dark gray plumage on the back, lighter on the belly, along with its bright orange beak and yellowish legs. A small tousled crest adorns its head, giving it a slightly mischievous look. With its deep red eyes and 24 cm length, it certainly doesn’t go unnoticed in our garden!
Its song or cry
The Madagascar Bulbul delights us with its clear notes, often repeated in series and sometimes extended with light trills. A gentle morning melody that brings the lodge’s garden to life at the break of dawn.
An anecdote or fun fact
Clever and opportunistic, the Madagascar Bulbul loves to sneak around the restaurant in search of leftovers. A moment of distraction, and there it is—snatching a bite right off your plate.
Where and when to see it in our garden?
The Madagascar Bulbul is a regular visitor: it can be spotted at dawn in the fruit trees around the lodge. Present all year round, it is especially active between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., often drawn by the hustle and bustle around the restaurant.
Why does he love our garden?
The Madagascar Bulbul finds everything it loves here: an abundance of berries, insects to peck at, and unlimited tropical fruits. The diverse shrubs offer it shelter… and the forgotten leftovers from the restaurant are always welcome!
Tips for observing it
To get a chance to see it up close, sit quietly near the raspberry bushes or in the shaded corners of the lodge. Speak softly, take out your binoculars… and if you’d like to attract it, offer ripe fruits rather than table scraps!
