Great Grey Shrike
Lanius excubitor
Length 24cm

Scarce and irregular winter visitor mainly to E and S England from October to March. Favours heaths and open country with trees and bushes, these used as lookouts. Almost annual in New Forest and on Surrey heaths. Recalls small bird of prey and, at a distance, looks very white. At close range, grey cap and back, and black mask and wings can be seen. Catches small mammals and birds, sometimes impaling them to assist with dismembering or as larder.