Scientific Name: Pycnonotus jocosus
Malay Name: Merbah Telinga Merah
Chinese Name: 红耳鹎
Found from the Indian subcontinent to southern China and Southeast Asia. Widely introduced to many parts of the world including Singapore via the song bird trade.
Polytypic. Subspecies are: fuscicaudatus, abuensis, pyrrhotis, emeria, whistleri, monticola, jocosus, pattani, hainanensis
Size: 18-20.5 cm
Identification: Adult has earthly brown upperparts contrasting with white underparts, tall erect black crest, prominent white cheek and throat with black moustachial stripe, small red ear patch and reddish vent. Juvenile resembles adult but duller overall, lacks the red face patch and has brownish crest.
Habitat: Open terrain, wooded area, gardens and parks.
Local Status: Uncommon introduced resident
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Location: Lorong Halus, Jurong Lake Park, Kent Ridge Park, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Saddle Club, Tuas South, Punggol Barat and Pulau Ubin.
Craig Robson (2011) A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia
Allen Jeyarajasingam & Alan Pearson (2012) A Field Guide to the Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore