Eastern Yellow Wagtail

Motacilla tschutschensis

Family: Wagtails and Pipits · Status: Uncommon migrant · Size: 17 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds in northeastern China, eastern Russia, and Alaska. Winters across most of Southeast Asia, including Australia.

Identification

Yellow on underparts variable; non-breeding birds generally have whitish underparts with greyish-brown upperparts. Breeding-plumage individuals recorded in Singapore have grey cap and nape with all-yellow throat and underparts. Compared to Grey Wagtail in non-breeding plumage, has dark legs, more olive or brownish mantle, and lacks yellow rump.

Habitat

Open habitats with grass cover; shows preference for moist or wet habitats.

Behaviour

Forages on the ground, wagging tail while moving. Flight undulating.