The MASKED SHRIKE (_Enneoctonus personatus_) is of a blueish black upon
the upper parts of the body; the breast is reddish yellow; the brow,
shoulders, throat, and rump are white; the six centre tail-feathers are
entirely black, and the two outer ones pure white, with a black shaft;
the rest are a mixture of black and white. The eye is brown, the beak
and feet black. This species, according to Lindmayer, appears in Greece
at the beginning of May, and leaves again in the middle of August. It
is also met with in large numbers in Egypt and Nubia, remaining in the
latter countries throughout the entire year; whilst such individuals
as migrate from Europe penetrate as far as the interior of Africa, and
remain there during the winter season. Unlike other members of its
family, it perches upon lofty trees, from the summit of which its clear
but monotonous voice is constantly to be heard. The nest, which is small
and delicately constructed, usually contains six or seven eggs of a
yellow hue, spotted with yellowish brown. This species subsists entirely
upon insect diet.
* * * * *
The THICK-HEADED SHRIKES (_Pachycephali_) are recognisable by their
compact body, powerful head, strong beak, short wings and tail, and
powerful feet. All the species belonging to this group are met with in
New Holland and the islands of the Pacific, where they perch upon the
summits of lofty trees, and climb about among the branches, with the
alacrity of Titmice. Insects constitute their principal nourishment;
they also devour large quantities of caterpillars and worms. Their
movements are slow and their gait heavy. Their song varies according to
the species, some having loud but agreeable voices, whilst others utter
a prolonged piping note, varied and repeated in a very peculiar manner.
The nest is round, beautifully constructed, and generally placed upon the
branches or in a hole of some tree; it usually contains four eggs.