Two subspecies are recognized:[3] The white-eared bulbul is rotund in appearance, and has a brownish-grey body.

The head of the white-eared bulbul is black, with the area around its cheeks bearing a large white spot.

"[4] It is native to the western reaches of India, much of Pakistan, southern Afghanistan, coastal Iran, as well as much of the two-river basin in Iraq, Kuwait and the island of Bahrain.

[5] It has been introduced to the remaining Persian Gulf countries including Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.

[6] Usually the females build the nest, which is constructed in the shape of a messy cup from thin twigs, dry grass, and various plant fibers, and is located in a hidden spot on trees.