The Loggerhead Shrike is a predatory songbird nicknamed the 'butcher bird' for its habit of impaling prey — insects, lizards, small birds, and mice — on thorns and barbed wire to create a larder. It has a large hooked bill and black mask like a bandit. Despite its robin-like size, it kills prey too large to carry by impaling, then returning to feed.
Best time to see a Loggerhead Shrike
The best time to see a Loggerhead Shrike is October–March, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 34,405 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Loggerhead Shrike? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Loggerhead Shrike sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Loggerhead Shrike?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.