Great Grey Shrike at Grimes Graves, Norfolk

Breckland contains many sites which could potentially hold a wintering Great Grey Shrike, however, sites like Grimes Graves are traditionally good for this enigmatic species.  Wide open expanses of heathland with lots of scattered bushes, especially Hawthorn, makes up the habitat here, however, views are from the periphery as this is private land.
Having parked alongside one of the many forest trails near the village of Lynford, I walked the forest trails until the heathland opened up in front of me and within seconds I saw a bright white speck on a distant Hawthorn, checking this with the binoculars revealed the Great Grey Shrike.  The bird remained in view for all of my 30 minute stay, however, it always remained distant.


Great Grey Shrike at Grimes Graves 03/11/14

Despite remaining distant, the Shrike was typically conspicuous, this being due to its behaviour of sitting on prominent perches on top of Hawthorns, watching and waiting for potential prey to be sighted.
Occasionally, the Shrike flew between perches or gave chase to passing Finches, in doing so the beautiful mix of black, whites, and greys were seen on this bird.
Although distant, the picture on the left shows the highly distinctive plumage features of this predatory species.  The crown and mantle are a pale grey, this contrasts strongly with the black mask through the eye, black wings, black tail (white sides), and bright white underparts. A white patch on the wings opens into a bright white wing-bar when in flight.  Close views of this bird would show a raptor-like hooked bill, this highly efficient tool is used to tear open its prey.

Great Grey Shrike at Grimes Graves 03/11/14

The picture to the left shows a very typical view of a Great Grey Shrike sitting on the topmost part of a bush and watching its surroundings for potential prey. From such a perch, the Shrike will launch its attack, and indeed, I witnessed this when a Finch of Bunting species was chased to height before the Shrike returned to the same, or nearby perch.
Although distant, this picture shows how easy it is to pick out this species, however, a distant bird may be more difficult to pick out if its was against a bright background.  



Also seen at this locality was a few Mistle Thrushes, one of which was chased by the Shrike, Jay, Carrion Crows, and a single Fieldfare.
The mixture of Pine and Birch habitat in the area held several Goldcrests and a mobile Long-tailed Tit flock which included more Goldcrests.
Shrikes are my favourite group of birds and throughout the coming winter months I will be visiting this stunning bird again.