Bald Bird Discovered In Southeast Asia

The bare-faced bulbul — the first-known bald songbird to be discovered in mainland Asia.

Scientists exploring a remote and protected area of Laos have found a previously unknown species of bald bird living in an area of sparse forest and rugged limestone formations.

Dubbed the “bare-faced bulbul” because of the lack of feathers on its face and part of its head, it is believed to be the only bald songbird in mainland Asia, according to researchers from the Wildlife Conservation Society and the University of Melbourne.

“Its apparent restriction to rather inhospitable habitat helps to explain why such an extraordinary bird with conspicuous habits and a distinctive call has remained unnoticed for so long,” said Iain Woxvold of the University of Melbourne.

A description of the new species is published in the July issue of the Oriental Bird Club’s journal Forktail.

Bald birds are not entirely rare. Bluejays and northern cardinals are occasionally seen without plumage on their head due to a variety of conditions and diseases.

Some species, such as vultures and turkeys, naturally have no feathers on their head.

But, the famed bald eagle actually isn’t bald at all.

Photo: Lain Woxvold - University of Melbourne