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Gray Wagtail
Motacilla cinerea
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About the Gray Wagtail
The grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) is a member of the wagtail family, Motacillidae, measuring around 18–19 cm overall length. The species looks somewhat similar to the yellow wagtail but has the yellow on its underside restricted to the throat and vent. Breeding males have a black throat. The species is widely distributed, with several populations breeding in Eurosiberia and migrating to tropical regions in Asia and Africa. The species is always associated with running water when breeding, although they may use man-made structures near streams for the nest. Outside the breeding season, they may also be seen around lakes, coasts and other watery habitats.
Source: Wikipedia
Classification
- Scientific name
- Motacilla cinerea
- Family
- Wagtails and Pipits
- Order
- Passeriformes
Similar species
Other members of the wagtails and pipits family recorded in North America — a useful place to start if you are not certain of your identification.
- American Pipit Anthus rubescens
- Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola
- Eastern Yellow Wagtail Motacilla tschutschensis
- Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni
- Pechora Pipit Anthus gustavi
- Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus
- Siberian Pipit Anthus japonicus
- Sprague's Pipit Anthus spragueii
- Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis
- White Wagtail Motacilla alba
Know when the Gray Wagtail turns up near you
How rare bird alerts work →Gear for spotting Gray Wagtail
Optics
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Cameras
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