Roadkill: Loggerhead Shrike

Since the freezer is getting crowded, it seems like a good time to share a few more of the inhabitants... it's educational, or something. Perhaps this would be a good time for Matt to post about these lovelies and how they earned their "butcher bird" nickname. A closeup on that beak perhaps gives a slight indication?

Without further fuss, SeeTrail presents Roadkill: Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) - a predatory songbird of open areas and pointy shrubs; all the better to impale prey upon.

Note: state and/or federal permits are required to pick up birds.
Our permits are through Texas A&M; this shrike was collected with their permit ~20 miles north of Study Butte, Texas on 23 March, 2011.