Bird GuideShrikesBrown Shrike
Brown Shrike
Lanius cristatus

At a Glance

Common in Asia, this species is similar in habits to the North American shrikes, but it tends to be more elusive, spending less time perching conspicuously in the open. Brown Shrikes are rare visitors in spring and fall to western and southern Alaska, and have wandered as far south as California a few times.
Category
Perching Birds
Conservation
Low Concern
Habitat
Fields, Meadows, and Grasslands, Shrublands, Savannas, and Thickets, Tundra and Boreal Habitats
Behavior
Direct Flight, Swooping

Range & Identification

Description

7 1/2" (19 cm). Slim, with slightly hooked, stubby bill and fairly long tail. Brown back, pale eyebrow, blackish mask. Adult has tan underparts; juvenile more whitish or grayish below, with heavy barring on sides and flanks.
Size
About the size of a Robin
Color
Black, Brown, Gray, Tan, White
Wing Shape
Rounded
Tail Shape
Long, Rounded

Songs and Calls

Call Type
Chatter, Harsh, Nasal

Behavior

Diet

Mostly insects, small rodents, and small birds.