Tiger Shrike

The tiger shrike, or thick-billed shrike, is a fairly small, stocky shrike 17–19cm long. It takes its name from the tiger-like pattern of its reddish-brown, dark-barred upperparts. Adult males have white underparts and a grey head with a black mask, while females and young birds are duller and browner. Males weigh 27–29g (Wikipedia, general species account).

It is a shy, often solitary bird, less conspicuous than most other shrikes. Like other shrikes it is predatory, feeding on small animals. The nest is built in a tree and three to six eggs are laid. The song is a musical warbling, and it has a variety of harsh calls (Wikipedia, general species account).