The Masked Shrike (Lanius nubicus) is a small and elegant member of the shrike family, easily recognized by its striking black-and-white plumage and orange-buff flanks. Its black "mask," extending from the eyes to the nape, gives the bird its name and a distinctive appearance. Preferring open woodlands, orchards, and scrublands, this agile predator is often seen perched conspicuously, scanning the ground for prey.

In Lebanon, the Masked Shrike is a passage migrant and occasional summer breeder, favoring areas with scattered trees and shrubs. It feeds primarily on insects, such as beetles and grasshoppers, but will also hunt small lizards and birds, sometimes impaling its prey on thorns or barbed wire for later consumption. Renowned for its sharp eyesight and territorial nature, the Masked Shrike is a captivating bird that adds vibrancy to Lebanon’s rich biodiversity.