Loggerhead Shrike populations have been in decline in recent years. The one we saw last weekend in northern Maryland has been in the area for the past 2.5 years, but it's also the only Loggerhead Shrike that is currently known to be in the state. Evidently, changes in human land-use practices, the spraying of biocides, and competition with other species have helped contribute to the decline of this species.
Like other shrikes, the Loggerhead inhabits grasslands and open habitats, feeding on a variety of invertebrate and vertebrate prey. Compared to most birds, its head is large in proportion to its body size - thus the name Loggerhead, which also means “blockhead.”
When we saw the Loggerhead Shrike, it was perched on a small, bare tree on top of a dirt pile overlooking a field. King-of-the-hill of its little territory, with a perfect vantage point to see prey. Unfortunately, we weren't able to get super close to it, but Jared still managed to get a few photos through the scope.
Here's a good, close photo of a Loggerhead Shrike (not our photo):
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