A Northern Shrike standing on a minke whale skull after an unsuccessful attempt to impale a sparrow on the pointy bits of a pilot whale skull.  Northern Shrikes, including many immatures, are seen regularly on Sable Island, mostly during October and November.  On the island, shrikes have been seen chasing small birds, hovering falcon-like above vegetated terrain, and perched high atop poles and towers.  Some perched individuals have seemed `talkative' - voicing a prolonged medley of harsh notes and musical phrases. 

<     >