loggerhead shrike siteing ?
Posted by Bill Baerg on March 9, 2006
Q: I believe I seen a loggerhead shrike the other day. He seemed to have more distinguished black and white than the resident Northern Shrike I have been watching throughout the winter. I also believe his mask was larger and more distinct. Could I have mistaken my siteing because the Northern shrike has changed to his Spring plumage? Today I seen the northern shrike again. He (she) seemed the same as always; a more dusty grey whith very little black markings.
Habitat: stream/river
State: British Columbia
Habitat: stream/river
A: Birds sure do get around so it is possible you've seen a Loggerhead Shrike (Loggerheads are not usually found in your area) but not likely. I think you're seeing something else. I'm wondering if you've been watching an immature Northern Shrike that is just now molting into its adult plumage which is more distinct than the immature one. The two North American Shrikes are really diffiult to tell apart but after some careful observation, maybe you can solve your "mystery". Thanks for writing.
John Wiessinger ( March 12, 2006)