BIRD OF THE MONTH - Northern Shrike

February 2026 - Northern Shrike

The burly, bull-headed Northern Shrike is a pint-sized predator of birds, small mammals, and insects. A bold black mask and stout, hooked bill heighten the impression of danger in these fierce predators.

They breed in far northern North America and come as far south as the northern U.S. for winter. They hunt in brushy, semiopen habitats, chasing after birds, creeping through dense brush to ambush prey, or pouncing on mice. They often save food for later by impaling it on thorns or barbed wire.

Shrikes have a toothlike spike on either side of the upper bill and a corresponding notch on either side of the lower mandible. Known as a "tomial tooth," this feature allows them to kill prey with a quick bite to the neck.

To capture prey, Northern Shrikes employ an impressive variety of tactics. Like kestrels, they often perch prominently and scan the area for signs of prey. Once they spot prey, they may fly to chase an insect or small bird in flight, capturing the prey with the feet or the bill. Although shrikes do not have talons as raptors do, their feet are strong and can be used for seizing birds in flight. They call very little while on wintering grounds unless warning or attacking an intruder.

It is a medium or short distance migrant.