Page 14 - The Islander - March '25

Page 14, The Islander

nortHern notes

Loggerhead Shrikes – Nature’s Butcherbird

By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration, Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District

The Loggerhead Shrike is derived from the Latin
is a gray and white bird that word “butcher.” Shrikes
resembles a Mockingbird can also hover over prey,
at first glance. Both are waiting for the perfect
types of songbirds with a moment to strike.
similar overall gray, black These remarkably
and white pattern and are intelligent birds then
about the size of a cardinal impale their prey on
or robin. The shrike has barbed wire, thorns, tree
blacker wings, a larger branches, or other sharp
head, a black mask, and a objects to immobilize
heavy, hooked bill, unlike and kill it, if their beak
mockingbirds that have grayer wings, a smaller head and hasn’t already done the
a thinner bill. The Loggerhead Shrike’s black mask acts job. This practice, akin to a human’s pantry or larder, also Loggerhead Shrikes are typically found in open areas
like the black paint athletes wear to keep the sun’s glare helps them store food for days if food is scarce. A large with scattered shrubs and trees, but the species can also
from impeding eyesight. pantry can serve to attract mates or feed juveniles. This be found in more heavily wooded habitats with large
Where they truly stand out is in their unique hunting practice can also help remove toxins, making the prey openings and very short habitats with few or no trees.
techniques. The shrike, a carnivorous bird, has a preference safe to eat after a few days. For instance, impaling a toxic They particularly like tree snags (dead trees), where they
for lizards, bugs, and small animals, unlike the seeds monarch butterfly helps break down toxins, making it safe can perch high up to look for prey.
and berries that mockingbirds enjoy. Their hunting style to eat after a few days. These vicious, intelligent, ruthless birds are amazing
is both fascinating and terrifying for their prey. Shrikes Another reason for their macabre tendency to impale animals in our area. Next time you see a gray and white
hunt from above, diving down to snatch their prey in their their prey is due to their tiny feet and legs. Their beak and bird, look closely and see if it might be nature’s butcherbird.
hooked bill. The upper part of the shrike’s hooked bill hunting abilities are similar to hawks and falcons, but their NPDES tip: Safely use and dispose of pesticide. If all
features a pair of built-in projections called “tomial teeth.” passerine feet are similar to songbirds and can only perch of the pesticide cannot be properly used, check with your
These specialized “teeth” are used to dispatch rodents by on branches instead of using them like hawks and falcons solid waste management authority to find out when and
striking the nape of the neck, instantly paralyzing them, to rip and tear. The barbed wire and sticks hold the prey where to properly dispose of this type of hazardous waste.
and then shaking them with enough force to break their in place so the shrike can eat it. Don’t judge their feet too
necks. They are quick and efficient hunters, earning them quickly, though; shrikes have been known to carry prey Photos by Lucas Shaffer,
the nickname “butcherbirds.” Their genus name, Lanius, the same size as themselves. NPBCID Environmental Manager

Happenings from page 12

accessories. The exciting expansion of the event will not
disrupt traffic in nearby residential areas, allowing the
local community to enjoy the festivities without added
inconvenience.
The 2025 PBIBS will continue to showcase more
than 800 boats, ranging from small, high-performance
vessels to luxurious, multimillion-dollar superyachts.
Special activations include exciting attractions designed
to provide boat showgoers with an up close and personal
experience. The Windward Club offers VIP amenities
with a premium open bar and gourmet food in a unique
indoor and outdoor lounge setting. Additionally, Nautical
Ventures’ world-famous AquaZone immerses guests with
various water sports and innovative marine products.
Mark your calendars for March 19 to 23, and join us for
another unforgettable experience in beautiful West Palm
Beach. For more information, visit PBBoatshow.com.
Photos courtesy of the Marine Industries
Association of Palm Beach County