Cape Wagtail
NameCape Wagtail
Common NameCape Wagtail
Scientific NameMotacilla capensis
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are grey, contrasting with white underparts. It features a distinctive, often narrow or incomplete, black breast band. The face has a white supercilium and a dark eye-stripe, while the outer tail feathers are white.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a sharp, clear 'tseep' or 'tsip' call, often given in flight or when agitated. It also has a chattering song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, wetland, grassland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Southern and East Africa, ranging from Angola and Zambia south through Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesGrey upperparts and white underparts, Black breast band, Long tail that constantly wags, White supercilium, Slender build
Description
The Cape Wagtail is a slender, medium-sized passerine bird known for its characteristic tail-wagging motion. It is commonly found in open habitats, often near water, throughout much of Southern and East Africa, frequently seen in human-modified environments.
