It might look like a lightweight, but the shrike is a stone-cold killer. The thorns of the acacia tree are perfect for impaling prey, and they double as a pantry. Lizard on the barbie, anyone?

The shrike.

He may look like a sweet little songbird, but this ruthless predator impales more victims than a vampire slayer.

The shrike feeds on small reptiles, birds, and insects.

And when he wants to dig into a good meal, he skewers his prey on the thorns of the acacia tree.

Now he can rip into some fresh meat.

This spiky branch isn't just a slaughterhouse. It's also a pantry.

Often the shrike will spear prey and store them there until decay starts to break down their bodies.

He may also garnish them with feathers in an attempt to attract a mate.

Lizard on the barbie, anyone?