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Research Paper | Zoology and Environmental Biology | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 148 - 151 | India
Nature's Master Nest Builder: Reproductive Ecology and Nesting Behaviour of the Red-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer) in Sikar District, Rajasthan
Abstract: The Red-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer) is one of the most common resident passerines in India and plays an important ecological role in seed dispersal, insect control, and pollination. The present study documents the reproductive ecology and nesting behaviour of the species in Sikar District, Rajasthan, during the breeding season (March-August). Field observations focused on nest-site selection, nest construction, breeding behaviour, incubation, hatching success, and parental care. The bulbuls preferred dense shrubs and small trees such as lemon (Citrus limon), bougainvillea, neem (Azadirachta indica), and ficus for nest placement at heights of 1-4 m. Cup-shaped nests were constructed using dry grasses, fine twigs, rootlets, plant fibres, spider silk, cotton fibres, and soft leaves. Both male and female participated in nest building, although females performed most of the final shaping. The clutch size generally ranged from two to three eggs with an incubation period of 12-14 days. Hatchlings were altricial and entirely dependent on both parents for feeding and protection. Insects formed the primary food for nestlings, while fruits and berries were gradually introduced during later development. Nest predation, extreme summer temperatures, and human disturbance were the principal causes of breeding failure. The findings demonstrate the remarkable adaptability of the Red-vented Bulbul to semi-arid and urban environments and highlight the importance of conserving native vegetation and urban green spaces for sustaining breeding populations. Similar nesting characteristics have been reported from Rajasthan, confirming the species' flexibility in habitat use and nest construction.
Keywords: Red-vented Bulbul, reproductive ecology, nest construction, breeding biology, hatching success, Sikar, Rajasthan
How to Cite?: Anita Jhajhria, Deepa Verma, "Nature's Master Nest Builder: Reproductive Ecology and Nesting Behaviour of the Red-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer) in Sikar District, Rajasthan", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 148-151, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26701200928, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26701200928