Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach)
The Long-tailed Shrike, also known as the Rufous-backed Shrike, is a medium-sized passerine bird that belongs to the family Laniidae. It is found in many parts of Asia, including India, Southeast Asia, and China.
These birds have a distinctive appearance, with a grayish-brown plumage on their body, a white belly, and a black mask-like stripe across their face. They have a relatively long tail and a hooked bill.
Long-tailed Shrikes are typically found in open habitats, including scrublands, grasslands, and farmlands. They feed on a variety of prey, including insects, small reptiles, and rodents.
During breeding season, Long-tailed Shrikes build a nest in trees or shrubs, laying 3-5 eggs per clutch. Both parents share the duties of incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
Long-tailed Shrikes are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List, although some populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, pesticide use, and trapping for the pet trade.
Overall, the Long-tailed Shrike is an interesting and important species that plays a significant role in many open habitats in Asia.