As mid-summer hits the prairies, the young of a unique at-risk species are venturing out.
Nature Saskatchewan is keen to encourage southwest residents and landowners to be aware of young loggerhead shrikes.
Emily Putz, habitat stewardship coordinator for Shrubs for Shrikes, Plovers on Shore, and the Stewards of Saskatchewan Banner Program, shared that road mortality is one of the largest threats to adolescent loggerhead shrikes.
"July is an exciting time for loggerhead shrikes, as the young are fledging mid-July, so it's a good time of the year to spot them," she said. "They've left the nest and they're pretty loud about now, begging their parents for food because they're not independent yet, but it's also a pretty dangerous time for them too,
"The young are attracted to roadways, especially the gravel beside a shelter belt, because a lot of insects are there and they like to practice hunting."
These birds are grey and white, with a black band, and, despite being predatory songbirds, are slightly smaller than a robin.
Anyone who spots a loggerhead shrike is encouraged to call Nature Saskatchewan's toll-free HOOT Line at +1(800) 667-HOOT or by emailing outreach@naturesask.ca, and all calls are kept anonymous.
Additionally, property owners with these birds on their land can join the Shrubs for Shrikes program to further help protect this species.