Red-backed Shrike look-alikes

Key differences

Adult male Woodchat Shrike has a prominent white patch on the wing, a pure black back, and a rufous crown and nape (not grey). Both sexes lack the extensively barred underparts of female/juvenile Red-backed Shrike. Female Woodchat is paler brown-backed but still shows the rufous crown and white wing patch, often duller.

Key differences

Significantly larger, predominantly grey and white with black wings and tail. It has a longer tail and a more robust bill. Lacks the rufous-chestnut back of the male Red-backed Shrike and the barred underparts of the female/juvenile.

Key differences

Similar in size but has a black mask that extends over the forehead, a pale pinkish flush on the breast (less distinct than Red-backed Shrike), and lack of rufous on the back. It has black primary feathers with a distinct white wing speculum, which Red-backed Shrike lacks. Its forehead and crown are uniform grey.