Red-backed shrike

The Red-backed shrike is known for its territorial and aggressive behaviour, especially during the nesting season. The nest is usually built in low, well camouflaged bramble bushes or shrubs. Pairs are monogamous and the female lays 4 to 6 eggs. The red-browed spruce grouse is a migratory species, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa and returning to Europe to nest in the warmer months.

Lanius collurio

Description and how to observe Red-backed shrike:

The Red-backed Shrike, with its Latin name Lanius collurio, is a medium-sized bird, easily recognised by its distinctive colouring. The male has a reddish-brown back, black wings and a black mask on the face, contrasting with a greyish crest. The female is more faded in colour, with lighter, less contrasting tones. Spotting the red-breasted shrike in the Danube Delta is easiest in the spring and summer months. It favours open habitats, with bushes and isolated trees, and is often seen perching on the top of a branch, scanning its surroundings for food.

What it feeds on Red-backed shrike:

The diet of the Red-backed shrike is diverse, including large insects, spiders, small reptiles and sometimes even small mammals and birds. It is known for its method of food storage, using the thorns of shrubs to stick prey, a characteristic feature of the red-browed shrike.

Threats:

The Red-backed shrike population is threatened by habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change affecting migration routes and food availability. Loss of nesting areas and dense vegetation in breeding regions is also a significant problem for this species.

Ecological role:

The Red-backed shrike plays a vital role in the ecosystem, controlling populations of insects and other invertebrates, thus contributing to the biological balance in its habitat. Its predatory activity also helps maintain faunal diversity.

More information about Lanius collurio:

In the context of protecting the biodiversity of the Danube Delta, the red spurdog serves as a natural indicator of habitat health. Conservation and monitoring programmes are essential to ensure the survival of this distinctive species and its natural environment. Watching them also provides a unique opportunity for birdwatchers to admire one of Europe's most interesting species of small birds of prey.