Overall much darker in appearance than African Red-eyed and Dar-capped Bulbuls, with the dark brown on the underparts extending onto the lower belly. The white eye-ring is diagnostic.
Juvenile lacks the white eye-ring and is darker below than Dark-capped and African Red-eyed Bulbuls.
Fynbos, coastal scrub, riverine forests, exotic plantations and gardens.
A sharp, liquid whistle, 'peet-peet-patata.