Loggerhead Shrike
The Loggerhead Shrike is a small bird known for its distinctive gray plumage and black mask across its eyes. It typically measures about 9 to 12 inches in length and has a stout, hooked bill. This bird is often found in open habitats like fields, grasslands, and edges of forests across North America.
Loggerhead Shrikes are unique for their hunting behavior; they are known as "butcher birds" because they impale their prey, such as insects and small rodents, on thorns or barbed wire. This behavior helps them store food for later consumption, showcasing their adaptability in various environments.