Motacilla cinerea
The Grey Wagtail is a slender, long-tailed bird with a distinctive grey upper body and bright yellow underparts. Its tail is notably long, often bobbing up and down as it moves. The wings are dark with white bars, creating a striking contrast.
During the breeding season, males display a black bib, while females have paler throats and less vibrant yellow underparts. Juveniles resemble females but have buff-tinged plumage.
Length
17cm to 20cm
Wingspan
25cm to 30cm
Weight
15g to 25g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey Yellow
Secondary Colour
White Black
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Pink
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Grey Wagtails inhabit areas near fast-flowing water, including mountain streams, rivers, and waterfalls across Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. They are also found in urban areas with suitable water features.
In the UK, they are widespread breeding birds, with some individuals moving to lowland areas in winter. During this season, they can be spotted in towns and cities near water bodies.
Sea level to 4,100 meters
Temperate, Subtropical, Tropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Grey Wagtail. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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