Sousa's Shrike
NameSousa's Shrike
Common NameSousa's Shrike
Scientific NameLanius souzae
FamilyLaniidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsAdults have a grey crown and nape, a broad black mask extending from the lores through the eye to the ear-coverts, and a white supercilium above the mask. The throat and breast are white, contrasting with rufous-brown upperparts and wings. The flanks are pale buff, and the tail is relatively long and dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, churring or rattling notes, often given in a series. It may also produce more musical whistles or trills.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in central-southern Africa, ranging from Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo east to Zambia, Zimbabwe, and parts of Tanzania and Mozambique.
Identifying FeaturesBlack eye mask, Grey head, Rufous-brown back and wings, White underparts, Shrike-like hooked bill, Long tail
Description
Sousa's Shrike is a small, distinctive shrike characterized by its grey head, prominent black eye mask, and rufous-brown back. It is an insectivorous bird that perches conspicuously to hunt prey in the woodlands and savannas of central-southern Africa.
