The mountain shrike or grey-capped shrike, is a species of bird in the family Laniidae. It is endemic to the Philippines found on the islands of Luzon, Mindoro and Mindanao. Its habitat are tropical montane secondary forest, forest edge and grassland above 1,200 meters above sea level.
Region
Philippines
Typical Environment
Found in montane landscapes on Luzon, Mindoro, and Mindanao, especially in secondary forest, forest edges, and open grasslands with scattered shrubs. It uses ecotones where woodland meets open country, often near ridgelines and clearings. The species tolerates moderate habitat disturbance if perches and shrub cover remain. It is most frequently encountered above the lowland zone where cooler temperatures prevail.
Altitude Range
1200–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the grey-capped shrike, this species is confined to the highlands of the Philippines. Like other shrikes, it hunts from prominent perches and may impale prey on thorns or barbed twigs for storage. It favors forest edges and open montane habitats where scattered shrubs and small trees provide vantage points.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between exposed perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, defending territories that include prominent lookout perches. Breeding pairs build cup nests in shrubs or small trees, and both parents feed the young. Like other shrikes, it may cache prey by impaling it on spines or barbed wire.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, scolding chatter and harsh notes typical of shrikes. The song is a mix of whistles and buzzy phrases, sometimes including mimicry of other birds.
Plumage
Compact shrike with a grey crown and nape, warm brown to rufous upperparts, and pale underparts with a whitish throat. A bold black mask runs through the eye and contrasts with the grey cap. Tail is dark with pale edges; wings show subtle pale edging when folded.
Diet
Primarily takes large insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, and orthopterans. It also captures small vertebrates including lizards, frogs, and occasional rodents or small birds. Hunting is done from exposed perches with quick sallies to the ground or nearby vegetation. Prey may be stored on thorns for later consumption.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, clearings, montane grasslands, and shrubby slopes where open ground is interspersed with perches. Often hunts from fence lines, dead branches, and ridgeline snags overlooking open patches.
