Brown-headed Barbet Psilopogon zeylanicus Scientific name definitions

The Brown-headed Barbet, endemic to the Indian subcontinent, is the largest barbet in peninsular India and Sri Lanka. Three subspecies occur in dry and moist deciduous forests from the northern subcontinent down to Sri Lanka's dry zone. A common and characteristic frugivore of these habitats, its vocalizations are frequently heard even through the warmer portions of the day, especially during the early summer when it breeds. Its plumage resembles that of the closely related Lineated Barbet (Psilopogon lineatus), although it is slightly smaller, and its orange bill and brown head (with fainter streaking than Lineated) gives it a somewhat darker appearance. It is also vocally distinct from the latter species. In addition to wooded habitats, the Brown-headed Barbet also has adapted well to human habitation, and is common and widespread in the parks and gardens of cities such as Delhi. Aggressive and territorial, it nests and roosts in tree cavities, in competition with other barbets. Generally among the more common and familiar of Indian birds, this account summarizes what is known of the biology and behavior of this adaptable bird.