Sri Lanka Woodshrike
NameSri Lanka Woodshrike
Common NameSri Lanka Woodshrike
Scientific NameTephrodornis affinis
FamilyVangidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsAdults exhibit grey upperparts, a distinct darker grey mask or eye-stripe extending from the lores through the eye, and clean whitish underparts. The wings are a darker grey, and the tail is also grey, often with white outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, often repeated, whistling or churring call. It can also produce harsh, shrike-like notes, characteristic of its family.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of Sri Lanka, where it is found throughout suitable forested and scrubland habitats.
Identifying Featuresgrey upperparts, whitish underparts, dark eye-stripe, shrike-like appearance, endemic to Sri Lanka
Description
This small, shrike-like bird is endemic to Sri Lanka, typically found foraging actively for insects in the canopy and mid-story of trees. Its subdued grey and white plumage provides effective camouflage within its arboreal habitat. It moves deliberately, gleaning prey from foliage and branches.
