Northern Shrike (Lanius excubitor), Mormon Lake Overlook, Coconino County

This Northern Shrike was discovered and photographed by Eric Hough on 16 November 2008 at the Mormon Lake Overlook near Flagstaff.  A bird was also present in this location last year. 

Northern Shrike is a rare winter visitor to Arizona.

Note the the narrow black mask, pale lower mandible and the lack of contrast between throat and breast. 

16 November 2008, photos by Eric Hough

All photos copyright© by the photographer