A Rare Shrike - Brown or Red-backed?

In early March a wildlife biologist for the California State Parks found and photographed what she originally thought to be a Loggerheaded Shrike at the mouth of Alder Creek in Manchester Beach State Park. Her photos were subsequently seen by others who determined that this bird was a Brown Shrike (this would be the 5th CA record).

As the bird molts out there has been some discussion amoungst those who know far more than I swirling around whether or not this might be a Brown or Red-backed Shrike or possibly a hybrid. Nobody seems quite sure and all are waiting for more photos over the next two-three weeks to see what the molt shows.

You can see some excellent photos by Monte Taylor on his site Here.

You can also see video shot by Will Brooks Here.

Patrick and I made our adventure out to the coast after this bird on Saturday March 29th. It was glorious weather at the coast and made for a superlative day, glad to be alive. Following all the directions from various postings we arrived at 9:45 am. A group of 4 birders was already there and had not yet seen the bird. After 15 minutes of waiting and searching the shrike popped up near the top of the slope on the opposite side of the creek. I had set up my scope about 100 yds. west of the overlook where the others were stationed. I jogged back up to them and pointed out the bird and we were all able to get good looks over the course of the next hour. Patrick got good looks and thought the bird looked pretty cool. He thinks the hunting techniques of shrikes are particularly interesting.

Once the pros decide which species of shrike this is I will post it here.