Shrikes

Several species of shrikes are known, common amongst them being the Baybacked Shrike, the Longtailed Shrike and the Grey Shrike.

At first glance, it is possible to mistake the Baybacked for the Longtailed Shrike. But, there are noticeable differences, mainly in the size of the tail. The Longtailed shrike has a long brownish colored tail, whereas the Baybacked's tail is shorter and darker. The black band, which common to all three species, also covers a large part of the Bayback's forehead, whereas it only extends across the eyes of the Longtailed and Grey Shrikes.

The upper body parts are dark chestnut colored and the head parts are greyish-white. Mainly found in lightly wooded forest, in arid parts of the country, while the Longtailed Shrike prefers slightly less arid regions.

Location:  Nannaj

Longtailed Shrike (also see post Rufuousbacked Shrike)

Location:  Bhandup

The Grey Shrike is bigger than the other two, with white and grey body and a thick bill, suitable for feeding on grasshoppers, lizards and small rats. It inhabits dry and open scrub-land forests.

It is grey headed with brown upper body and white chest and abdomen parts.

Location:  Nannaj