Tag: Northern Shrike

One bird that I have not had much success with this winter is the Northern Shrike. They have been around in various spots and I have seen them, just no photos to speak of. Fortunately that would change this afternoon. I was out enjoying another beautiful afternoon walking around Brunswick Point. At the start of the trail there were some Common Goldeneye and Western Grebe in the river. Once out on the point both Northern Harrier and Short-eared Owls were active over the marsh. On getting closer to the far side a familiar streak of grey, black and white flew into a stand of trees just off the dyke. I made my way slowly along the trail that parallels the dyke.

It was not long before I came across the Northern Shrike perching atop a tree.

This has been a good spot for them in the past and this bird did not disappoint.

Even more delightful was the fact it was calling quite a bit while moving between the trees. Perhaps it could sense spring was in the air. It was good to finally get some shots before they move on. On my way back out a group of Red-breasted Mergansers had also arrived on the river.

Another beautiful day to be out and about. I headed back out to the Brunswick Point area again this afternoon. The cormorants and some sea ducks were in the vicinity of the pilings, but I continued along the trail. There is still a handful of Snowy Owls around, but once again I did not see any Short-eared Owls. Then a bird flew by that got my attention as it was one I had not had much luck with getting photos of yet this winter.

The Northern Shrike is a predatory song bird that can usually be seen in this area every winter. They can be challenging to get photos of as they move between the tree tops looking for food.

Fortunately there was one small stand of trees this Northern Shrike stuck to for awhile. It would perch high and then dive down to the ground and catch insects. They will also eat small birds and mammals. Not having talons like other predators, they will use their strong bill to dispatch prey.

They also have the habit of impaling prey on sharp branches or thorns, sometimes caching them for later. This earned the Northern Shrike the nickname “Butcher Bird”.