Grey Wagtail
NameGrey Wagtail
Common NameGrey Wagtail
Scientific NameMotacilla cinerea
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsAdults have grey upperparts, a white supercilium, and bright yellow underparts, particularly on the vent. Breeding males display a black throat. The long tail is black with white outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a sharp, high-pitched 'tissick' or 'tseep', often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of temperate Eurasia, from Western Europe to East Asia, and winters in southern Europe, Africa, and southern Asia.
Identifying Featureslong tail, grey upperparts, bright yellow underparts, white supercilium, tail bobbing behavior, preference for fast-flowing water
Description
The Grey Wagtail is a slender, long-tailed bird known for its distinctive grey and bright yellow plumage. It is typically found near fast-flowing water, where it forages for insects, often bobbing its tail.
