There are around 33 bird species in this family. Shrikes are found in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. They are not found in South America or Australia, although one species, the Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach), occurs on the island of New Guinea.

Shrikes range from about 6 to 14 inches (15.2–35.6 cm) in length. They have strong, slightly hooked bills and sharp claws. Most species have long, narrow tails. Their feathers are usually gray, brown, black, or a combination of these colors, with many species having paler feathers on their undersides.

Shrikes are predators that eat both vertebrates and invertebrates. Their diet can include large insects as well as small birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Their hooked bills are specially adapted for killing prey.

The family name Laniidae comes from Lanius, the Latin word for “butcher.” Shrikes are sometimes called “butcher birds” because of the unusual way they handle their prey. They often impale animals on thorns, sharp branches, or barbed wire. This allows them to tear apart larger prey and can also provide a food supply for later.