The Economic Times

Canadas innocent-looking butcher bird looks harmless but mercilessly stabs its prey on thorns and barbed wire: Meet the tiny songbird with a terrifying hunting secret, now facing threats in Saskatchewan

Canadas innocent-looking northern shrike, nicknamed the butcher bird, has a shocking hunting habit that makes it unlike most songbirds. The tiny predator kills insects and small animals before impaling its prey on thorns, barbed wire and other sharp surfaces. Heres why this unusual Canadian bird has earned its gruesome reputation.