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Loggerhead Shrike Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Loggerhead Shrikes are thick-bodied songbirds. They have large, blocky heads and a thick bill with a small hook. The tail is fairly long and rounded.

    Relative Size

    Smaller and more slender than an American Robin; larger and longer-tailed than a Western Bluebird.

    Relative Sizerobin sizedrobin-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 7.9-9.1 in (20-23 cm)
      • Weight: 1.2-1.8 oz (35-50 g)
      • Wingspan: 11.0-12.6 in (28-32 cm)

Regional Differences

Shrikes from eastern North America have pale to medium-gray rumps. Loggerhead Shrikes from the Interior West have white rumps similar to those of Northern Shrikes. Loggerhead Shrikes breeding in southern California are slightly darker above and much darker below. An endangered subspecies of Loggerhead Shrike from San Clemente Island, in southern California, is the darkest gray of all.