Bay-backed Shrike

The Bay-backed Shrike, Lanius vittatus, presents itself as a modestly sized bird, measuring approximately 17 centimeters in length. Its upperparts are cloaked in a maroon-brown, contrasted by a conspicuously pale rump, while its tail is a deep black adorned with white edges. The underparts of this bird are predominantly white, with the exception of buff-colored flanks that add a subtle warmth to its plumage. A distinguished grey crown and nape grace its head, complemented by a striking black 'bandit mask' that extends through the eye. A small white patch can be observed on the wing, and both the bill and legs exhibit a dark grey hue. In terms of sexual dimorphism, the sexes appear similar, though the juveniles display a more diluted version of the adult's coloration.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Bay-backed Shrike, look for the characteristic black mask and the contrast between the maroon-brown back and pale rump. The white wing patch is also a key feature to note. The bird's upright posture on a perch is typical of shrikes and can aid in identification.

Habitat

This shrike favors bushes in scrubby areas and cultivated lands as its preferred habitat. It is a bird that thrives in the interface between wilderness and human-altered landscapes.

Distribution

The Bay-backed Shrike is a resident breeder with a distribution that spans across South Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, and India. It has also been recently recorded in Sri Lanka, indicating a possible range expansion.

Behaviour

The Bay-backed Shrike exhibits a quintessential 'shrike' demeanor, often perched upright on a bush. From this vantage point, it launches to capture a variety of prey, including lizards, large insects, small birds, and rodents. It employs a unique method of securing its catch by impaling it upon sharp objects like thorns, facilitating the consumption of its meal with its robust hooked bill. However, its feet are not adapted for tearing.

Breeding

Breeding for this species occurs in bushes located within its preferred scrubby and cultivated habitats. The Bay-backed Shrike lays a clutch of 3 to 5 eggs, investing in the future of its lineage with each breeding season.

Conservation status

The Bay-backed Shrike is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, suggesting that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival on a global scale.