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Explore the great grey shrike in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the great grey shrike in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the great grey shrike in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the great grey shrike’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Great grey shrike
Scientific name: Lanius excubitor
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: LANIIDAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Very shy
Minimum approach distance: 50 m
Courtship display: September to October
Incubation: 16–18 jours
Hatchings: September to October
Habitat:
Open habitats, hedgerows and woodland edges
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The great grey shrike is a small predatory passerine of 22–26 cm with pale grey-brown plumage, a black and white head marked by a broad mask, and pale underparts. It inhabits open habitats with scattered bushes, woodland edges and hedgerows, feeding on insects, small birds and rodents taken from perches.
Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Position yourself discreetly at a grove edge or near a hedgerow and wait for it to perch on an exposed branch. Shoot early morning for raking light, using a fast shutter speed to freeze motion and a shallow depth of field to isolate the bird.
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