The giant grey shrike is a species of bird in the family Laniidae. It is found in China. Its natural habitat is temperate forests. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the Chinese grey shrike, but was split as a distinct species by the IOC in 2021.
Region
East Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in central to eastern China, primarily in temperate forest belts and adjoining mosaics of woodland and scrub. It prefers forest edges, clearings, and riverine belts where scattered tall trees provide vantage points. Agricultural margins and hedgerows near woodlands are also used, especially outside the breeding season. It tends to avoid dense, closed-canopy interior forest but hunts along open rides and broken canopy. Populations may shift locally with winter severity and food availability.
Altitude Range
200–2600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The giant grey shrike is a large shrike of China, recently elevated to full species status from the Chinese grey shrike by the IOC in 2021. Like other shrikes, it is a perch-and-pounce predator that often impales prey on thorns or barbed wire for storage. Its bold black facial mask and strong hooked bill are classic shrike features. It favors edges of temperate forests where open perches overlook clearings or scrub.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong flier with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, defending territories with prominent song posts. Pairs build cup nests in trees or tall shrubs and raise a single brood, with both sexes participating in territory defense. Like many shrikes, it stores excess prey by impaling it on spines or wire to consume later.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are harsh, scolding chatters and rattles interspersed with whistles. The song is a varied mix of trills and mimicry delivered from exposed perches, often as a territorial display.
