Motacilla alba yarrellii, commonly known as the pied wagtail or Yarrell's wagtail, is a small black, white, and grey passerine bird. It is a well-known subspecies of the white wagtail (Motacilla alba) that primarily breeds in Great Britain and Ireland.
The pied wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii) is a small, active black-and-white bird measuring about 18 cm long and weighing 17–25g. Famous for constantly pumping its long tail up and down, it is a common, year-round resident across Ireland and Britain, frequently found dashing across lawns, car parks, and urban areas.
Physical Traits
Appearance: Features a striking black back, a black crown and bib, contrasting white cheeks, and a bright white belly. Females often have a slightly greyer back than males.
Tail: Possesses a long, narrow black-and-white tail that is constantly pumped or "wagged" up and down.
Size: Measures about 16 to 19 cm in length with a wingspan of 25 to 30 cm, weighing roughly 17 to 28 grams.
Habitat and Behavior
Diet: Primarily feeds on insects, including flies, beetles, and caterpillars, running swiftly across open ground to catch prey.
Urban Adaptation: Highly comfortable around humans, frequently seen darting across lawns, paved carparks, and suburban rooftops.
Nesting: Builds nests in natural and artificial crevices, such as stone walls, rock faces, and building cavities.
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