Great Grey Shrike

The largest European shrike, roughly the size of a Blackbird. It is a bold predator of open moors and marshes. In many parts of Europe, it is primarily a winter visitor from the north. It has a cold, elegant appearance with ash-grey, white, and jet-black plumage.

Like its smaller relative, it impales prey on thorns. It takes larger prey, including voles and small songbirds. It often hovers briefly like a kestrel while hunting. It is highly territorial in winter. In flight, it shows striking white patches on its black wings and white outer tail feathers.