This is an insectivorous bird of open country, often near habitation and water. It prefers bare areas for feeding, where it can see and pursue its prey. In urban areas it has adapted to foraging on paved areas such as car parks.
It nests in crevices in stone walls under roof tiles, under stones etc. Its diet is Small invertebrates from the ground or fly-catching.
The Pied Wagtail is easily spotted, as its name suggests, by its constantly wagging black and white tail. The male can sometimes appear to be pure black, and the female usually has a dark grey back. Usually to be seen in small groups, but they can sometimes gather in large flocks, and will roost commonly in reeds and orchards.
Age at First Breeding
1 year
First clutches laid
Mid May
Fledging
14 days
Clutch Size
5-6 eggs
Incubation
13 days
Egg Weight
2.3 g
First Record
8th Century
Egg Size
20x15 mm
Habitat
Open country, often near water
Weight
21g
Wingspan
28 cm
Length
18 cm
Status in UK
Migrant/Resident Breeder, Passage Visitor
Conservation Status UK
Green
Number in Britain
600,000
Number of broods
2
Typical Lifespan
2 years
Maximum Recorded Age
11 years, 3 months