This large songbird with a large round head and an equally thick neck can be spotted in Banff NP in winter. The Northern Shrikes come south to Banff in the winter as well to other parts of Canada and northern parts of the states. Breeding takes place far north, in parts of Canada and Alaska. Most songbirds do not hunt and eat animals. But the shrike does, using its toothlike spike on its upper bill to kill prey. Going after mice and birds up to the size of robins. Since they like to hold territories during winter and the male sings in late winter and early spring. A good bird to keep your eyes out for before they head back up north. This shrike I came across just as we were about to start a small hike over a month ago. It landed less than 10 meters from us, waiting for a vole to come out in the open. A few minutes later, it flew down to the ground to catch a vole. But it was far too fast for me to get the picture before it was in the woods.
