Birds of Singapore
by the Bird Society of Singapore
Motacilla citreola
Family: Wagtails and Pipits · Status: Vagrant · Size: 16.5–20 cm · Conservation: Least Concern
Breeds widely from Europe to Asia; winters in India and Southeast Asia, occurring as a vagrant in Singapore.
Key feature in non-breeding birds is the supercilium wrapping around the ear coverts and connecting to the throat, creating an isolated cheek patch. Some may retain breeding plumage through winter, with yellow on the head including the forehead; in Eastern Yellow Wagtail the ear-coverts are brown, not yellow. Upperparts more grey than Eastern Yellow Wagtail, usually lacking olive tones, especially on the rump.
Marshes, fields, and coastal habitats; prefers wet habitats.
Forages on the ground, wagging tail while moving. Flight undulating.