Western Yellow Wagtail

A slender, vibrant summer visitor to Europe. It arrives from Africa in April. Unlike the Grey Wagtail, this species lives in open damp meadows, marshes, and farm fields. It is famous for its variety of subspecies. These vary significantly in head color across the continent, such as the Blue-headed or Ashy-headed wagtails.

Yellow Wagtails are often seen running among the feet of grazing cattle. They catch insects disturbed by the livestock. They are social birds, especially during migration. At night, they gather in large groups in reedbeds to roost. They nest on the ground, well-hidden in thick grass or crops. Their call is a soft 'tsweep'.