Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.

Two subspecies are currently recognized:[2] The square-tailed bulbul lacks the black streak behind the eye and on the ear-coverts that is present in the black bulbul.

[3][4][5] In southern India, nesting activity begins in February and rises to a peak in May.

[5] Nest predators include birds of prey and snakes such as the black-winged kite and oriental ratsnake.

[6] Adult square-tailed bulbuls have been known to be preyed upon by the crested goshawk.