Red-Backed Shrike, in Kranjska Gora

We all remember our first time.

I’m referring of course to the photo of this Red-Backed Shrike, above, the first bird pic* I took with my new Sigma 150-600mm zoom lens. It clearly –in this case, with a grainy clarity– opened my eyes to the world this lens will help me gain access to. Once I get a handle on how to hold it, pan with it, get the best out of low light with it, and even how to carry it.

These were taken in late July and early August near Kranjska Gora, one of the gateway towns to Slovenia’s Julian Alps, altitude about 750m. These areas were mostly open fields in the shadow of thick conifer-forested mountains. According to Birds of the World, the Red-Backed Shrike (Lanius collurio) begins leaving its European breeding grounds from late July and early August, so these may have already began thinking about packing for their trips towards the Mediterranean.

The one above is a male – what a great mask! Below are a few shots taken the next morning of a female who perched at different ends of a fence while I fiddled with my lens and settings. I sincerely appreciated her patience.

The next three I assume are a juvenile, given the less contrasty underside plummage. I like how it blends so well into its surroundings in the third shot.

And finally, a little dance as it crossed the street. Note to self: get closer to capture these moves next time.

More:

• Red-backed Shrike at Birds of the World
• Red-backed Shrike at BirdLife DataZone
• Red-backed Shrike at eBird
• Red-backed Shrike at Avibase
• Red-backed Shrike at Wikipedia
• Red-backed Shrike at iNaturalist

All photos taken on 31 July and 1 August 2025 in Log, Kranjska Gora, Slovenia. Post published on 23 Aug 2025, last updated on 29 September 2025.

*Edited to add that this reference does not count the swimming Mallard I snapped in the Laghi di Fusine the day before; those shots are relatively easy. Birds in trees at a distance are much more difficult. 🙂