Masked Shrike
Masked Shrike
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The Masked Shrike, Lanius nubicus, is the smallest and arguably one of the most elegant members of the shrike family Laniidae. This striking migratory passerine is well-known for its distinctive black mask and bold plumage patterns, making it a favorite among birdwatchers in its range. It is a predatory songbird, exhibiting behaviors characteristic of its family, often perching conspicuously while hunting.
Where to spot
This shrike prefers open, dry habitats with scattered trees and bushes, such as olive groves, orchards, vineyards, open deciduous woodland, and scrubland. You can often spot it on prominent perches like power lines, fences, or the top branches of trees, from where it scans for prey.
How to spot
Look for a small, upright bird with a noticeable black mask and white supercilium, particularly on the male. Males also have extensive white patches in the wings that are visible in flight. They have an undulating flight pattern. Listen for their varied vocalizations, which include harsh chattering calls, but also a more melodic song incorporating mimicry of other bird species.
When to spot
The Masked Shrike is a diurnal bird, active throughout the day. It is a summer visitor to its breeding grounds, typically arriving from April to May and departing for its wintering grounds from August to October. The best time to observe them is during the breeding season when they are most vocal and active, or during migration periods in stopover sites.
Where to spot
This shrike prefers open, dry habitats with scattered trees and bushes, such as olive groves, orchards, vineyards, open deciduous woodland, and scrubland. You can often spot it on prominent perches like power lines, fences, or the top branches of trees, from where it scans for prey.
How to spot
Look for a small, upright bird with a noticeable black mask and white supercilium, particularly on the male. Males also have extensive white patches in the wings that are visible in flight. They have an undulating flight pattern. Listen for their varied vocalizations, which include harsh chattering calls, but also a more melodic song incorporating mimicry of other bird species.
When to spot
The Masked Shrike is a diurnal bird, active throughout the day. It is a summer visitor to its breeding grounds, typically arriving from April to May and departing for its wintering grounds from August to October. The best time to observe them is during the breeding season when they are most vocal and active, or during migration periods in stopover sites.
Credits:
Door Maskenwürger_(Lanius_nubius)_by_C._Becher.jpg: Claudia Becherderivative work: Berichard (talk) - Maskenwürger_(Lanius_nubius)_by_C._Becher.jpg, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8823353
Like other shrikes, the Masked Shrike exhibits the unique behavior of impaling its larger prey, such as insects or small vertebrates, on thorns or barbed wire fences, creating a 'larder' or aiding in dismemberment.
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