The Northern Shrike, or Great Grey Shrike as it is known in Europe, is a migratory bird that can found in northern Europe and Asia and in North America. It is known for impaling captured prey upon a sharp point, such as a thorn or the barbs of barbed wire. Thus secured they can be ripped with the strong hooked bill of the Northern Shrike, as its feet are not suited for tearing.
It looks much like a Loggerhead Shrike, but the Loggerhead Shrike is smaller and its black mask extends across the forehead above the beak, which is usually not the case with the Northern Shrike. Finally, the beak of the Northern Shrike is longer than that of the Loggerhead.
Spotting a shrike perched in the wilderness of North America might just be a highlight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. But did you know there are actually two types of shrikes to look out for in this vast continent? Yes, the Loggerhead Shrike and the Read more »
