First Documented Nesting of the Red-Whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus in Taiwan

Abstract

The red-whiskered bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus is widely distributed across south-east Asia but does not occur naturally in Taiwan. Recent evidence suggests that it may be in the process of establishing itself in Taiwan with breeding evidence reported from two localities in Taipei City. This paper reviews the observational records of the red-whiskered bulbul sightings in Taiwan since 1985, and then reports its first documented nesting attempt in May 2010. Furthermore, the incubation period, nestling period, breeding dates and predation of red-whiskered bulbul nestlings in the literature were briefly reviewed. The likelihood and possible consequences of a successful establishment of the red-whiskered bulbul in Taiwan were discussed, ending with a short summary of the number of exotic bird species that have been recorded and bred in the wild in Taiwan.