Red-backed Shrike song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Red-backed Shrike, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A varied and pleasant, warbling song, often delivered from a prominent perch. It consists of a mixture of melodious, fluty notes, whistles, churrs, and mimicry of other bird species (e.g., swallows, chaffinches, warblers). Can be quite complex and inventive.

Calls

Common calls include harsh, scolding 'tschak', 'tschrr', or 'kerr' notes used in alarm or agitation. A softer 'twee' or 'pwit' may be given in contact. During courtship, a purring 'prrr' is heard.

When they vocalize

Males sing most frequently during courtship and early breeding season to attract mates and establish territory. Alarm calls are given throughout the year as needed.

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