Woodchat Shrike
Woodchat Shrike
70
20 hours ago
The Woodchat Shrike (Lanius senator) is a striking medium-sized passerine bird belonging to the shrike family. Known for its predatory habits and distinct plumage, it is a migratory species that breeds across parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. It is often observed perching conspicuously in open landscapes, scanning for prey.
Where to spot
This species prefers open habitats such as pastures, orchards, olive groves, vineyards, and areas with scattered trees, bushes, and hedgerows. Look for it in warm, dry regions with low vegetation. You might spot it on prominent perches like power lines, fence posts, or the tops of small trees.
How to spot
The Woodchat Shrike is often seen perching prominently, making it relatively easy to spot. It has a distinctive upright posture. Listen for its varied vocalizations, which include harsh chattering, melodic warbles, and sometimes mimicry of other birds. Its flight is direct and often undulating.
When to spot
The Woodchat Shrike is a diurnal bird, most active during daylight hours. It is present in its breeding grounds from approximately April to September, depending on the region. During the winter months, it migrates to sub-Saharan Africa, so it will not be found in its breeding range during that period.
Where to spot
This species prefers open habitats such as pastures, orchards, olive groves, vineyards, and areas with scattered trees, bushes, and hedgerows. Look for it in warm, dry regions with low vegetation. You might spot it on prominent perches like power lines, fence posts, or the tops of small trees.
How to spot
The Woodchat Shrike is often seen perching prominently, making it relatively easy to spot. It has a distinctive upright posture. Listen for its varied vocalizations, which include harsh chattering, melodic warbles, and sometimes mimicry of other birds. Its flight is direct and often undulating.
When to spot
The Woodchat Shrike is a diurnal bird, most active during daylight hours. It is present in its breeding grounds from approximately April to September, depending on the region. During the winter months, it migrates to sub-Saharan Africa, so it will not be found in its breeding range during that period.
Credits:
liesvanrompaey
Credits:
f_snarfel
Like other shrikes, the Woodchat Shrike is famously known as a 'butcher bird' due to its habit of impaling prey on thorns or barbed wire, using these as a 'larder' to store food or to aid in tearing it apart.
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- 3480 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 20 hours ago
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