A Pair of Piping Shrikes

by tfawcus

Two piping shrikes, birds of magpie hue,
sang their serenade as I went about my work.
You'd think a shrike might pipe
a shrill and wailing skirl,
sending shivers down the back,
but that's not true!

Their song's a throaty ripple,
like the babble of a creek,
a most melodious warble,
a very cheerful gurgle,
that echoes through the garden
from the hayshed roof,

but treat these birds with caution,
diminuendos dropping
on the ears of those who listen,
belie their beady eyes
and sharp, strong beaks,

as in the springtime season,
when chicks are hatched and hungry,
defending territory,
they will often swoop.

Beware the shrieking shrike!
In parental mode
they strike,
and their beaks draw blood
from the likes of me and you!

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Recognized

Of all the birds I have ever heard, the Piping Shrike has the most mellifluous and varied song. It is not surprising that it appears on South Australia's flag, State Badge and Coat of Arms. Although the term Piping Shrike is correct for the Australian magpie, it is rarely used. You are far more likely to hear these widespread and much loved birds referred to, informally, as "Maggies". They are more than welcome on our farm as their omnivorous diet includes mice and young snakes!

Photograph by the author (March 2017)

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A Pair of Piping Shrikes

by tfawcus

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