TaxonHub

Gray Wagtail

Motacilla cinerea

Small passerine bird characterized by its distinctive gray and yellow plumage, known for its constant tail-wagging behavior while perched or walking.

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Riparian zones, mountain streams, wetlands, and forest edges across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa with elevations ranging from sea level to 4,500 meters

Ecological Role

Insectivorous species that helps control aquatic and terrestrial insect populations, serving as an important component of stream and river ecosystem food webs

Morphology

SKIN COAT Distinctive gray upper parts, bright yellow underside, long black-and-white graduated tail
LIMBS WINGS Long, slender legs with strong feet for walking along stream edges, wings adapted for agile flight and quick maneuverability
HEAD SENSORY Pointed beak adapted for catching flying and ground-dwelling insects, alert eyes with good peripheral vision
BODY STRUCTURE Slender body, approximately 16-19 cm in length, weighing 15-22 grams

Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Zeynel Cebeci

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Related Species in Motacillidae

Anthus pratensis

Anthus rubescens

Motacilla alba