Loggerhead Shrike juveniles on a log – Nikon D810, f6.3, 1/500, ISO 400, +13 EV, 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Lately I have been seeing and hearing Loggerhead Shrikes acting like spring has already arrived by singing from the tops of bushes to establish their territory. Although there is suitable habitat for Loggerhead Shrikes all over Antelope Island State Park I have found the northern end to be the most productive for me when I want to photograph shrikes. The reason for that is that there is shrike habitat close enough to the roads that I can photograph them from a mobile blind without disturbing their normal activities.
Loggerhead Shrikes are year round residents here in northern Utah but they can be more difficult to find in winter. Once it warms up though they can be seen in many locations, especially during the breeding season. They will often have more than one brood per season and I personally have seen juvenile Loggerheads from late May into September.
These two Loggerhead Shrike juveniles on a log were photographed last August on Antelope Island and were probably from a second brood. Loggerheads usually lay between 5 to 6 eggs and after the chicks fledge they hang around together for a period of time like these two siblings were. Loggerhead Shrike juveniles will beg for food from the adults for several weeks after fledging while they learn how to hunt for prey on their own.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Loggerhead Shrike photos plus facts and information about this species.
Such alert charmers. Thank you.
I always admire your wonderful sense of compsition…this is no exception. Thanks to you and Ron, I’m learning to appreciate these birds….
Beautiful photo, Mia.