Scientific Name:
Motacilla alba yarellii
Common Name:
Pied Wagtail
Family:
Wagtails and Pipits: Motacillidae
Summary:
The Pied Wagtail is a small black and white bird with a long tail which it wags, giving the impression of imminent flight. The cap is black and the face is white. In summer the chin and upper chest are black, but in winter the chin turns white. The back and wings are predominately black with white edges to the wing feathers, on the female the back is more a dark grey than black. There are no yellow parts on the Pied Wagtail.
Ecology:
The Pied Wagtail is an amazing bird to watch as it catches flying insects mid-flight, it also feeds on invertebrates on the ground. It is nearly always found near freshwater, and can roost together in very large numbers. It builds a cup shaped nest in a small cavity in a rocky area.
Habitat:
Close to freshwater.
Distribution:
Throughout the British Isles, upland areas only in summer
Size:
17 cm