ExploreBird

Grey Wagtail

Motacilla cinerea

The Grey Wagtail is a cheerful little bird with a long tail that wags up and down. You can often see it near streams and rivers, hopping around looking for tasty insects to eat.

Habitat: Near water, like rivers and streams

Appearance

The Grey Wagtail has a sleek grey back and a bright yellow underside, especially on its vent. It sports a long, constantly wagging black tail with white outer feathers and a distinctive white stripe above its eye.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyMotacillidaeGenusMotacilla

Grey Wagtail

Interesting facts

Its 'grey' name hides a stunning yellow belly!

Males have a black chin patch during breeding season!

Their chirpy song sounds like 'tsi-tsi' or 'chip-chip.'

These birds build cup-shaped nests near fast-flowing water.

Special abilities

Grey Wagtail can expertly hunt flying insects over fast-moving water because of their agile flight and quick movements.

Grey Wagtail has a constantly wagging tail that helps them flush out hidden insects or signal to other birds.

Grey Wagtail can catch tiny aquatic insects by darting along riverbanks, thanks to its keen eyesight and quick reflexes.

Measurements & details

Length: 18-19 cm
Wingspan: 25-27 cm
Weight: 0.014-0.022 kg
Lifespan: 2-5 years
Top Speed: 60 km/h
Clutch Size: 3-6
Incubation: 11-14 days
Migration Distance: 2000 km

Diet & Feeding

They mainly eat insects found near water, sometimes catching them mid-air!

Primary Foods

Mayflies
Caddisflies
Midges
Beetles
Small larvae

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eats

Caddisfly

Limnephilus rhombicus

Main food source for wagtails.

eats

Mayfly

Ephemera danica

Important prey, especially larval forms.

eaten by

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

Accipiter nisus

A common raptor that preys on small birds.

eaten by

Domestic Cat

Felis catus

Feral and pet cats can hunt these birds.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Singing

Listen to the beautiful sounds of nature's singers! These animals use their voices to attract friends, mark their territory, or even warn others.

Insectivorous

Discover clever creatures that specialize in munching on insects, playing a super important role in keeping bug populations in check. They are nature's tiny bug vacuums!