Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Rose-colored shrike
Scientific name: Lanius senator

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: LANIIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-31.12
Gestation: 180 à 220 jours
Births: 31.12-15.01
Habitat:
Bushes, hedgerows, open fields
Description:
The rose-colored shrike is a small predatory bird found primarily in bushes, hedgerows, and open fields across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It is easily recognized by its light gray plumage, reddish head, and strong, hooked beak. This bird primarily feeds on insects, small birds, and rodents, which it captures by ambush and sometimes impales on branches with its beak. It is also known for its territorial behavior and constant vigilance.
Recommended lens:
>=600 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the rose-colored shrike using a telephoto lens to capture the details of its plumage and hunting behavior. It is best to photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the bird is more active. Be patient and ready to capture a moment when it captures its prey or impales it on a branch.
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