Shrikes are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the family Laniidae. They are known for their distinctive hooked beaks, which they use to catch and eat insects, small mammals, and birds. Shrikes are often found in open habitats like fields and scrublands, where they can easily spot their prey. One of the most interesting behaviors of shrikes is their practice of impaling their prey on thorns or sharp objects, a behavior that has earned them the nickname "butcher birds." This unique feeding strategy helps them store food for later consumption and is a notable characteristic of the Laniidae family.