Lesser grey shrike

Introduction: Although lesser grey shrikes (Lanius minor) avoid dense stands of bushes and low trees, they are regularly observed in open Acacia savannah and other woodland locations. On the northern Namibian escarpment they are found in stunted, open mopane areas, as well as general regions that offer space, bare ground and a few tall shady trees to shelter in the heat of the day.

Distribution: Fairly common in most of Namibia except for the very arid west and southern regions of the country. Regularly observed in the arid savannahs of Khomas Hochland around Windhoek.

Diet: Sits and waits before pouncing on prey on the ground. Eats mostly invertebrates, mainly insects and at times, only beetles.

Description: Black wings with broad white patch at the base of the primaries. Other features include a white throat, black bill, brown eyes, legs and feet. Often confused with the common fiscal which has a black crown to mantle, not grey. Between March and April, sings a soft warbling chatter.

Breeding: Extralimital.

Size: 21cm.

Weight: 46g.