The brown shrike is a bird in the shrike family that is found mainly in Asia. It is closely related to the red-backed shrike and isabelline shrike. The genus name, Lanius, is derived from the Latin word for "butcher", and some shrikes are also known as "butcher birds" because of their feeding habits. The specific cristatus is Latin for "crested", used in a broader sense than in English. The common English name "shrike" is from Old English scríc, "shriek", referring to the shrill call.
Region
East and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds across Siberia, Mongolia, and northern China, with some populations reaching Korea and the Russian Far East. Winters widely through the Indian subcontinent, southern China, Taiwan, and much of Southeast Asia to Indonesia and the Philippines. Uses open woodlands, scrub, hedgerows, forest edges, agricultural mosaics, and urban parks. Often favors areas with scattered shrubs, tall grasses, and prominent perches such as wires or fenceposts. Occurs along coasts and in mangroves during passage and winter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Brown shrikes are classic 'butcher birds' that sometimes impale prey on thorns or barbed wire to store food and help tear it apart. They breed in northern Asia and migrate long distances to winter across South and Southeast Asia. The bold black facial mask and habit of hunting from exposed perches make them easy to spot. They readily use human-modified landscapes such as farms and gardens in winter.
Immature bird, Kolkata, India
Eggs, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Lanius cristatus lucionensis, the Philippine shrike; note the grey crown and white throat contrasting with the rufescent underside. Kolkata, India
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights between perches
Social Behavior
Typically hunts alone from exposed perches, sallying to the ground or into vegetation to seize prey. Breeding pairs defend territories and nest in shrubs or small trees, constructing a cup nest. Clutches usually contain 3–6 eggs; parents are attentive and may aggressively mob intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Calls include harsh chatters, scolding 'check' notes, and rattles. Song is a soft, varied warble with occasional mimicry, delivered from a perch and often interspersed with call notes.
