Current Status and Comments on the Biology of the Iberian Grey Shrike <i>Lanius Meridionalis </i>in the Coussoul (Or Dry Crau) In Southern France, Bouches-Du-Rhône

This paper addresses the conservation status and biology of the Iberian Grey Shrike in a unique habitat: the Coussoul, a stony desert in southern France covering approximately 12,000 ha.It is well known among bird watchers as it is rich in wildlife and is home to the country's only Pin-tailed grouse population.Surveys from 1994Surveys from , 2009Surveys from and 2023 showed that the shrike population exhibited a certain degree of stability in this relatively stable habitat, over the periods examined.In 2023, the total density was 0.75 occupied territories/100 ha.The main nest-sites are Rubus bushes, which punctuate the arid steppe.Some details are given about the species' diet which shows significant seasonal variations.The Coussoul Lanius meridionalis population represents between 5 and 10% of the total French population and we recommend that it be given more attention within the framework of the future management plan (2025-2034) of the existing National Nature Reserve created in 2001 and extending over 7,400 ha.