The northern shrike is a predatory songbird that winters in the northern United States.
A predatory songbird that feeds on small birds, mammals, and insects, the northern shrike is known for its unusual habit of impaling its prey on thorns or barbed wire to save for later. Naturalist Sarah Gladu, of Damariscotta River Association, will be leading a walk on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 1-2:30 p.m. in hopes of spotting northern shrike, which often visit the area this time of year after breeding in taiga and tundra farther north.
There is no cost to join the walk. Depending on conditions, ice cleats or mini spikes may be a good idea. Binoculars will be available to borrow. Registration by Friday, Nov. 30 is required and may be done online at damariscottariver.org/events.
A nonprofit, membership-supported, and nationally accredited land trust and conservation organization, Damariscotta River Association is dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the Damariscotta region, centered on the Damariscotta River.
DRA has active programs in the areas of land conservation, stewardship, community education, water quality monitoring, marine conservation, and cultural preservation.
Visitors are welcome at the Great Salt Bay Heritage Center in Damariscotta as well as the many other DRA properties throughout the region. For more information, call 563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or go to damariscottariver.org.
