Loggerhead Shrike
Lanius ludovicianus
The Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) is a common shrik found in 4 countries, weighing about 52 g. The loggerhead shrike is a passerine bird in the family Laniidae.
About the Loggerhead Shrike
The loggerhead shrike is a passerine bird in the family Laniidae. It is the only member of the shrike family endemic to North America; the related northern shrike occurs north of its range; however, it is also found in Siberia. It is nicknamed the butcherbird after its carnivorous tendencies, as it consumes prey such as insects, amphibians, lizards, small mammals and small birds, and some prey end up displayed and stored at a site, for example in a tree. Due to its small size and weak talons, this predatory bird relies on impaling its prey upon thorns or barbed wire for facilitated consumption. The numbers of loggerhead shrike have significantly decreased in recent years, especially in…
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How to identify it
The loggerhead shrike is a medium-sized passerine. "Loggerhead" refers to the relatively large size of the head as compared to the rest of the body. The wing and tail length are about 3.82 in (9.70 cm) and 3.87 in (9.83 cm) long, respectively. It weighs on average 1.8 oz (50 g), with a range of 1.6–2.1 oz (45–60 g) for a healthy adult shrike. Measurement ranges Length: 7.9–9.1 in (20–23 cm) Weight: 1.2–1.8 oz (34–51 g) Wingspan: 11.0–12.6 in (27.9–32.0 cm) The adult plumage of the loggerhead shrike is grey above with a white to pale grey breast and black tarsi and feet. Voice: Their vocal range is broad and varied, and has been described as harsh and jarring. The shrike's notes include squeaky whistles, shrill trills, and guttural warbles. The trills sung by males during breeding season vary in rhythm and pitch. When alarmed, a shrike will produce a "schgra-a-a" shriek while spreading out its tail feathers.
What the Loggerhead Shrike sounds like
Where it lives
When to see it
The Loggerhead Shrike can be seen all year round, with peak activity in January. It is a resident species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Loggerhead Shrike?
- The loggerhead shrike is a medium-sized passerine. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Loggerhead Shrike?
- The Loggerhead Shrike is a small sized bird weighing about 52 g.
- Where can you see a Loggerhead Shrike?
- The Loggerhead Shrike occurs in 4 countries, including the United States, Mexico, Canada and Belize.
- What does a Loggerhead Shrike sound like?
- You can listen to a field recording of the Loggerhead Shrike on this page, contributed to xeno-canto under open licences.
- What birds look similar to a Loggerhead Shrike?
- The Loggerhead Shrike is most easily confused with the Red-backed Shrike, the Great Grey Shrike and the Brown Shrike.
- Is the Loggerhead Shrike endangered?
- The Loggerhead Shrike is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the Loggerhead Shrike for real
BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.
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