©Margaret Holland
Pied wagtail
Scientific name: Motacilla alba
The pied wagtail is a familiar bird across town and countryside. Its black-and-white markings and long, wagging tail make it easy to identify as it hops across the road or lawn.
Top facts
Stats
Length: 18cmWingspan: 28cm
Weight: 21g
Average lifespan: 2 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
A common and familiar bird, the pied wagtail is often seen in towns and cities, dashing across lawns, roads and car parks while wagging its long tail up and down. Pied wagtails eat insects, but will feed on seeds and even rubbish in winter. They flock together at warm roost sites like reedbeds and sewage works or trees and bushes in city centres. In summer, they defend breeding territories and will nest in ivy, under roofs, in walls, between stones ... in all kinds of places!What to look for
The pied wagtail is a familiar black-and-white bird, with a white face, white belly and white bars on the wings. The other two breeding species of wagtail in the UK both have yellow underparts.Where to find
Widespread.Habitats
Did you know?
Although they usually live life in the fast lane, the maximum recorded age for a pied wagtail is 11 years and 3 months.Watch
Pied Wagtails (https://vimeo.com/447524329)
Pied Wagtails by John Bridges