SOUTHERN FISCAL

SOUTHERN FISCAL

Lanius collaris

afrikaans: Fiskaallaksman

21–23 cm; 25–50 g

Description:-

A common black-and-white shrike of open country; often goes by the local name of ‘jackie hangman’ from its habit of cacheing prey on thorn ‘larders’. Superficially similar to boubous, but its erect stance, long tail and perch-hunting behaviour distinguish it. Also resembles Fiscal Flycatcher, but tail is longer and is white-edged (not white in panels); bill heavier and stance more squat. In most races, female has chestnut flanks. Juv. is greyish brown, with fine dark bars on its head, back and flanks. Desert and arid savanna races have a white supercilium.

Voice:-

Harsh, grating call ‘dwrrr-wrrrr’; song is melodious and jumbled, often with harsher notes and mimicry of other birds.

Status and biology:

Common resident in most open habitats, including parks and gardens. Solitary or in pairs, in permanent territories; often hunts from roadside fences and telephone wires.