Shrikes · Perching birds
Lesser Grey Shrike
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Lanius minor
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How to recognize it
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Medium-sized shrike, a bit smaller than Great Grey Shrike; compact shape, short heavy bill
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Broad black facial mask reaches the forehead and often the front crown
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Pale grey upperparts, black wings with white wing patches, black tail with white edges
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Often perched upright on wires or treetops; flight low and wavering
About the species
The Lesser Grey Shrike looks upright and purposeful, often perched on the top of a bush, tree, or wire in open country. Its plain grey, black, and white look is easy to remember, and in flight the long, pointed wings stand out.
It watches from a high post, drops on insects, and can even hover for a moment while hunting. When excited, it flicks its tail from side to side, fans it out, and gives harsh calls and whistles.
It prefers dry open places with scattered trees, such as fields, edges, gardens, parks, shelterbelts, and roadside trees. It feeds mainly on insects, especially beetles, and is a long-distance migrant, leaving for southern Africa in early autumn and returning in spring.
Where to find
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On dry vacant lots and the edges of broad lawns, Lesser Grey Shrike often sits on fence posts and wires, scanning for beetles and grasshoppers.
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Along old tree-lined avenues with open ground beneath, look for a stiff upright perch on the highest branch before a quick dash after flying prey.
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By canal banks, pond edges, and overgrown lawn margins, it makes short hunting flights from one lookout and returns to the same spot.
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At the fringe of gardens or vineyard-like plots with thorny shrubs, it may pause on a top twig and occasionally pin prey on thorns.
