Latin name ( Grey Wagtail)
Motacilla cinerea
Family
Pipits and wagtails (Motacillidae)
Overview
The grey wagtail is more colourful than its name suggests with slate grey upper parts and distinctive lemon yellow under-tail. Its tail is noticeably longer than those of pied and yellow wagtails. They have gradually increased their range in the past 150 years and in the UK have expanded into the English lowlands from the northern and western uplands. They are badly affected by harsh winters, and because of recent moderate declines it is an Amber List species.
Where to see them
Found over most of the UK, with the exception of the Northern and western isles of Scotland. Likes fast flowing rivers in summer their greatest densities are in the hills of England, Scotland and Wales. In winter they can be seen around farmyards and lowland streams, even in city centres. Scarce in central and eastern England in summer and from upland areas in winter.
When to see them
What they eat
Insects
Estimated numbers
| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* |
|---|---|---|---|
| – | 38,400-46,200 pairs | – | – |
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.
Ann Novek( Luure)--With the Sky as the Ceiling and the Heart Outdoors 