Red-backed Shrike

🔍 Overview

Formerly bred in the UK, now a scarce passage migrant through Sussex, mostly in spring and early autumn.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Males: grey head, black mask, chestnut back

Females: brown with scalloped underparts

Perches on bushes or posts, upright stance

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Most likely at coastal scrub and farmland edges, especially Beachy Head, Pagham Harbour, or Seaford Head, in May–June and August–September.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Often silent in UK. Known for impaling prey on thorns; scans from prominent perches.