Flame-Throated Bulbul

WHY IN NEWS?

The flame-throated bulbul, also called the Rubigula, was chosen as the mascot of the 36th National Games to be held in Goa because it is the state bird.

ABOUT FLAME-THROATED BULBUL

• The flame-throated bulbul (Pycnonotus gularis) is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found only in the forests of the Western Ghats in southern India. Formerly included as a subspecies of Pycnonotus flaviventris it has since been elevated to the status of a full species.
• They are olive backed with yellow undersides, a triangular orange-red throat and a white iris that stands out against the contrasting black head. They are usually seen foraging in groups in the forest canopy for berries and small insects.
• They have a call often with two or three tinkling notes that can sound similar to those produced by the red-whiskered bulbul.
• IUCN status: Least Concern

Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding flame-throated bulbul:
1.It is endemic to Western Ghats.
2.It is listed as least concern according to IUCN.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a)1 only
b)2 only
c)Both 1 and 2
d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to the Prelims Question