Lanius mackinnoni
The Mackinnon's Shrike (*Lanius mackinnoni*) is a striking medium-sized passerine, instantly recognizable by its bold black, white, and grey plumage. Measuring approximately 20-22 cm (8-8.7 inches) in length and weighing 40-60 grams, it exhibits the typical robust, hooked bill characteristic of shrikes. Key identification features include a prominent black mask extending from the lores to the ear coverts, contrasting sharply with a white supercilium and pure white underparts. Its crown and na...
Primarily inhabits forest edges, secondary growth, clearings, cultivation, and woodland areas, favoring disturbed habitats. Typically found at moderate elevations, often between 600-2,000 meters above sea level.
Feeds primarily on large insects such such as grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars, but also preys on small vertebrates like lizards, small birds, and rodents. Forages predominantly using a 'perch-and-pounce' strategy.
Mackinnon's Shrikes are quintessential 'perch-and-pounce' predators, often observed sitting on exposed branches or power lines from which they scan for prey. Once spotted, they swoop down with precision to capture their meal, demonstrating remarkable agility. They are highly territorial, defendin...
The Mackinnon's Shrike is a widespread resident species found across a broad band of Central and West Africa. Its breeding and year-round range extends from Sierra Leone and Liberia in the west, eastward through Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic. Furthe...
Least Concern
- Mackinnon's Shrikes are sometimes called 'butcher birds' due to their habit of impaling prey on thorns or barbed wire, creating a 'larder'. - Despite being passerines (songbirds), they possess a sharply hooked beak, reminiscent of a raptor, perfectly adapted for tearing prey. - Their diet inclu...