Long-tailed Shrike

Long-tailed Shrike

Lanius schach

Least Concern

Aves · Passeriformes · Laniidae

About

The long-tailed shrike or rufous-backed shrike is a member of the bird family Laniidae, the shrikes. They are found widely distributed across Asia and there are variations in plumage across the range. The species ranges across much of Asia, both on the mainland and the eastern archipelagos. The eastern or Himalayan subspecies, L. s. tricolor, is sometimes called the black-headed shrike. Although there are considerable differences in plumage among the subspecies, they all have a long and narrow black tail, have a black mask and forehead, rufous rump and flanks and a small white patch on the shoulder. It is considered to form a superspecies with the grey-backed shrike which breeds on the Tibetan Plateau.

Fun Fact

They are found widely distributed across Asia and there are variations in plumage across the range.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Found mainly in scrub and open habitats.

Diet

Prey on a thorny bush after feeding just on the head or brain.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

  • Habitat Change
  • Human Disturbance