About Lanius excubitoroides Prevost & Des Murs, 1847
This species, the grey-backed fiscal, is a large shrike, measuring approximately 25 cm (10 in) in length. Breeding males have a grey crown, white supercilium, and a large black mask on the head. Their upper parts are medium grey, the rump is white, and the wings are blackish with a conspicuous white patch visible in flight. The long tail has a white base and black tip, and the underparts and base of the underside of the tail are white. Females are similar in appearance to males, but have chestnut patches on their flanks that become visible during display and preening. Juveniles are brownish overall with brown wings and tail, and are heavily barred with grey. The grey-backed fiscal is a sociable bird, most often found in wooded grassland, gardens, and damp acacia scrub. It is commonly seen in pairs or small groups perched on tree stumps, wires, and branches, where it engages in wing fluttering, tail waving, and noisy vocalizations. It is a gregarious cooperative breeder. Nests are built up to 10 m (33 ft) above ground, either near a tree trunk or on peripheral branches. The female constructs the nest, while the male may bring nesting materials and food to the female. A clutch typically contains around four eggs. Incubation is performed solely by the female and lasts approximately fourteen days. After hatching, young birds remain in the nest for a further twenty days.
