White-tailed Shrike

The White-tailed Shrike, or Lanioturdus torquatus, is a diminutive member of the Platysteiridae family. It is also colloquially known as the chatshrike or ground batis. This bird is distinguished by its very short tail, which is adorned with a small black mark at the tip of the central two feathers and is characteristically carried downwards.

Identification Tips

When observing the White-tailed Shrike, look for its upright posture and the unique tail presentation. The bird's plumage is similar in both sexes, making it a challenge to differentiate between male and female based solely on appearance.

Habitat

This species thrives in the scrub-savanna, thornbush, and mopane-veld, where it can be seen foraging from the ground to heights of up to 25 meters.

Distribution

The White-tailed Shrike is endemic to western Angola and Namibia, where it is a common and breeding resident.

Behaviour

The White-tailed Shrike exhibits large bounds in its movements and maintains an upright posture. It is often found alone or in pairs during the breeding season and may gather in small groups at other times. Its flight is described as clumsy, with shallow and rapid wingbeats akin to those of other batises.

Song & Calls

This bird's vocal repertoire includes a range of loud, ringing territorial whistles that can be heard across its habitat.

Breeding

Both sexes contribute to the construction of the nest, which is a deep, neat, well-moulded cup made with spider-web and situated approximately 3 meters above the ground in thorny acacias. The typical clutch consists of 2-3 pale-green to white eggs, sparsely dotted with reddish-brown spots. Only the female is responsible for incubating the eggs.

Similar Species

The White-tailed Shrike may be confused with other batises and bushshrikes due to its behavior and habitat preferences, but its unique tail characteristics and calls can help distinguish it.

Diet and Feeding

This bird is an insectivore, scanning and foraging for insects from ground level to the treetops.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List has classified the White-tailed Shrike as Least Concern, indicating that the species currently faces no significant threats to its survival.