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pycnonotus xanthopygos

Size: 20cm from bill to tail and a wingspan of 30cm.

Status: An abundant breeding resident in the north and south of Oman, including Musandam.

Identification: A medium-sized garden bird named after its yellow feathers under the tail (the vent). Has a black head with a white eye-ring, brown back and tail and a grey chest.

Voice: Is very vocal, has a pleasant, musical song and a variety of call notes.

Behaviour: A conspicuous, gregarious and noisy garden bird typically seen foraging in trees and bushes. Several birds and family groups visit fruiting trees and the fleshy berries are a favorite food. Insects are also on the menu.

Breeding: Builds a cup-shaped nest in trees or bushes. It is made of plant material and lined with hair to create softness.

Where to look: Difficult to miss in gardens and parks, also on farmland, palm groves and in wadis. Particularly plentiful at hotel gardens and Qurum Park near Muscat and at Ayn Razat and Ayn Hamran near Salalah.

Distribution: Found only in the Middle East.