SHRIKES. 54! 
imitation, and mimic the songs of other birds with such exactness as 
to deceive the most experienced ear. Some even go so far as to 
assert that they use this faculty to capture small birds, 
Fig, 251.—The Great Grey Shrike. 
They migrate every year, and at the time of their journey are 
much sought after for the table; for their flesh, being covered. with 
abundant layers of fat, is very. rich. It is a curious fact that, in spite 
of their cross-grained nature, they are very easily tamed. They cannot, 
however, accommodate themselves to close captivity, their active 
