The Grey Wagtail

The Grey Wagtail is a common bird of fast-flowing rivers and can be found in high numbers in the hills of England, Scotland and Wales. In winter, they move to lowland areas and can be spotted in farmyards and even in towns. Grey Wagtails eat ants and midges that they find beside rivers, and snails and tadpoles they find in shallow water. They nest near the water in hollows and crevices lined with moss and twigs.

The Grey Wagtail has a very long, black-and-white tail, a yellow rump and a yellow belly. It is grey above with black wings. Males have a grey face with a black throat bib and a white 'moustache'. The similar Yellow Wagtail has a shorter tail and an olive-green back, and does not have a black bib.