Red-backed Shrike
Lanius collurio
The Red-backed Shrike is a rare and migratory visitor to Britain, typically seen in the summer months, particularly in the southern regions. It is a notable species due to its distinctive appearance and predatory behaviour, often observed in open countryside with scattered trees and bushes.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Red-backed Shrike in the field.
The Red-backed Shrike can be identified at a glance by its grey and white striped head, reddish-brown back, and distinctive black mask through the eye. Its sharp, hooked beak and long, rounded tail are also key features.
The Red-backed Shrike is slightly smaller than a Starling, with a more slender build.
The male Red-backed Shrike has a reddish-brown back, grey and white striped head, and a black mask through the eye, with a white underside and black wings with a white patch.
The female Red-backed Shrike has similar plumage to the male, although the colours may be slightly duller and the black mask less pronounced.
The Red-backed Shrike has a sharp, metallic call, often described as a loud "tack" or "tek" sound, and a melodic song consisting of a series of whistled phrases.
The Red-backed Shrike is a carnivorous bird that feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits, often perching on top of bushes or trees to scan for prey, and exhibiting a swift and agile flight style when pursuing insects.
The Red-backed Shrike can be confused with the Lesser Grey Shrike, but can be distinguished by its reddish-brown back and grey and white striped head, whereas the Lesser Grey Shrike has a grey back and a more pronounced black mask.
Quick Facts
Who's spotted this?
Loading...
Recent community sightings
Loading recent sightings...
