red-backed shrike
Quick Summary
The red-backed shrike is a European shrike, also known by its scientific name, Lanius collurio. Shrikes, in general, are medium-sized predatory birds belonging to the family Laniidae. They are known for their ability to kill prey such as large insects, lizards, mice, and small birds using their bills. Some shrikes impale their prey on thorns, earning them the nickname "butcherbird". True shrikes are typically gray or brownish, often with black or white markings, and are solitary birds with harsh calls. While several Eurasian species have reddish or brown markings, the red-backed shrike specifically refers to Lanius collurio.12
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migrationIn EuropeGolden orioles (Oriolus oriolus) and red-backed shrikes (Lanius collurio) go to East Africa by way of Greece and Egypt. Swallowsâparticularly barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) and house martins (Delichon urbica)âand swifts (Apus apus) pass the winter in Africa south of 20° N latitude, particularly in
Read MoreGolden orioles (Oriolus oriolus) and red-backed shrikes (Lanius collurio) go to East Africa by way of Greece and Egypt. Swallowsâparticularly barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) and house martins (Delichon urbica)âand swifts (Apus apus) pass the winter in Africa south of 20° N latitude, particularly in
Read More- migrationModes of migration
The redbacked shrike (Lanius collurio) covers an average of 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) in five days as follows: two nights for migration, three nights for rest, five days for feeding.
Read MoreThe redbacked shrike (Lanius collurio) covers an average of 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) in five days as follows: two nights for migration, three nights for rest, five days for feeding.
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