Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

HOW TO IDENTIFY:

* Length: 7 inches
* Heavy, hooked bill
* Black mask
* Gray head and back
* White underparts
* Black wings with white wing patches
* Black tail with white outer tail feathers
* Juveniles and immatures are duller with faint barring above and below

Similar species:

The Northern Shrike is very similar to the Loggerhead Shrike but is larger with a black mask that does not extend across the top of the bill, a paler gray overall color and faintly barred underparts. Immatures are browner than immature Loggerheads. Northern Mockingbirds have slimmer bills and lack a black mask.