It is found in a wide variety of open habitats but not the deep forest.

Six subspecies are recognized:[2] The yellow-vented bulbul builds a well-camouflaged but fragile, loose, deep, cup-shaped circular nest from grass, leaves, roots, vine stems, and twigs.

It may be built in a wide range of places from low bushes to high trees.

The yellow-vented bulbul lays 2–5 eggs from February to June.

They also sip nectar, nibble on young shoots, and consume some insects.