About the Southern White-crowned Shrike
The Southern White-crowned Shrike (Eurocephalus anguitimens) is a species of shrike found in parts of southern Africa.
Habitat
Southern White-crowned Shrikes inhabit a variety of open habitats, including savannas, grasslands, scrublands, and woodlands. They are often found in areas with scattered trees and shrubs, where they can perch and scan for prey. These shrikes are commonly seen in both natural and human-modified landscapes, including agricultural areas, urban parks, and gardens.
Length
Southern White-crowned Shrikes are medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 22 to 26 centimeters (8.7 to 10.2 inches) in length, including their relatively long tail. They have a stout body, a strong, hooked bill, and relatively short wings. Their plumage is predominantly gray on the upperparts and white on the underparts, with a distinctive white crown and black mask around the eyes.
Best Viewing
The best places to view Southern White-crowned Shrikes are in open habitats with suitable perching sites and abundant prey. Look for them perched on branches, fence posts, or power lines, where they can be seen scanning for insects, small birds, and other prey items. These shrikes are often observed hunting alone or in pairs, using their sharp bill to impale prey on thorns or barbed wire.