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


Rose-colored shrike

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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