The Giant Grey Shrike, scientifically known as Lanius giganteus, is a species of bird belonging to the Laniidae family. They mostly prefers eating large insects and small vertebrates, especially lizards, frogs, and small birds. While they often hunt their prey from various perches, sometimes they also hunt directly from ground.
Grey Giant shrike, file photo. (Photo credit: Wikimedia)
New Delhi: For the very first time in the history of India, a giant shrike bird species has been witnessed in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. This particular species, which is mostly found in the high-altitude regions of China, was first spotted by a physiotherapist from Mumbai, Kalyan Kapdi, who was on a family holiday in March. She spotted the unique species of bird while visiting Sangetsar Lake in Tawang district, near the Indo-China border, above 3,708 metres above sea level. While diving deep into the fascinating story of spotting this bird in India, let’s learn more about this beauty creation of nature.
Facts to know about the long-tailed shrike
- The Giant Grey Shrike, scientifically known as Lanius giganteus, is a species of bird belonging to the Laniidae family.
- Well known for its striking feature, the upper part of the bird has a dark gray hue, while the lower part of its body has a bright white colour.
- The plumage of the shrike has a black colour with white patches on it. During its flight, the white patches on its wings and tails appear clearly, giving an alluring view to the spectators.
- This species of bird is mostly found at high elevations in open areas with stunted shrubs like rhododendron. During winter, this grey bird relocates to a lower habitat. They can often be spotted sitting on tall and exposed perches.
- A well-grown grey giant shrike can be 30 to 40 centimetres long and weigh around 55 to 80 grams. Moreover, they have a wingspan of around 30 to 40 centimetres.
- This beautiful bird was first described in 1887 by Nikolay Mikhaylovich Przhevalsky, a Russian geographer and renowned explorer of Central and East Asia.
- The Great Grey Shrike mostly prefers eating large insects and small vertebrates, especially lizards, frogs, and small birds. While they often hunt their prey from various perches, sometimes they also hunt directly from ground.
- The bird has a wide range of habitat and can be found in partly short-grassed regions and open landscapes with hedges. Additionally, they can also be spotted on solitary trees, which they also use for breeding.
Follow us on social media
