Bird of today: Longtailed Shrike 8/26/24

This is a Longtailed Shrike, one of a few variations of Shrikes (Also nicknamed Butcher Birds for their feeding habits). A predatory passerine, mainly found distributed across Asia. Though their plumage does vary, all subspecies have a black mask, and, of course, a long, black and slim tail.

Though these birds are small and quite pretty, what I found interesting about them is their certain feeding habits that vary from each subspecies. The Longtailed Shrike specifically, is known for impaling it's prey on sharp thorns, branches and bushes. The prey in question - lizards, insects, small birds and rodents - are generally spiked to be preserved for a later time, or to allow the bird to access meat with less difficulty. In some cases, the prey will be impaled to allow the toxins in certain insects to break down.

These birds also have capability to mimic certain calls and songs including that of squirrels, dogs, cuckoos, and lapwings. This also makes them a somewhat popular pet in parts of southeast Asia, which I did not know.

There is a lot more to learn about this one, this is just a somewhat brief overview.

Anyway, this was the bird of today. hopefully someone might enjoy this.