Grey Wagtail (18–20cm, 7–8in)

 The Grey Wagtail presents itself as a distinctive, sleek, and vibrant bird that graces much of Britain and southern Europe, although it's notably absent from most of northern Europe. During the breeding season, it exclusively frequents areas adjacent to flowing water, while outside this time frame, it gracefully inhabits lakes, ponds, and even urban landscapes.

These birds are in constant motion, agilely hopping from one rock to another in pursuit of sustenance, their elongated tails never ceasing their rhythmic swaying. The streamlined physique, the remarkable length of its tail, and its overall colorful appearance render the Grey Wagtail unmistakable, allowing for easy differentiation from its counterparts such as the Pied or Yellow Wagtail.

The distinction between the female (on the right) and the male (below) is subtle, with the absence of the black throat patch being the primary difference. Additionally, the female exhibits a slightly less vibrant yellow hue on the breast compared to the male. Both genders share similar characteristics, including a closed wing adorned with black feathers edged in white, a yellow rump, and a black tail accentuated by white outer tail feathers. Their slender bills are uniformly black, complemented by dark eyes, while their legs and feet present a soft, fleshy-pink hue.

During the summer months, the male dons an elegant appearance, showcasing a slate-grey head and back complemented by a striking white supercilium and a distinctive white moustache that frames a prominent black throat patch. Its breast and vent boast a vibrant yellow flush, while the rest of its underparts exhibit a subtle off-white hue, completing its distinguished ensemble.

During flight, the Grey Wagtail's elongated black and white tail is unmistakably eye-catching. Keep an eye on the upperwing for a conspicuous white bar that neatly separates the grey of the forewing from the black of the hindwing. Additionally, the vibrant yellow hue of the rump is easily discernible. Don't forget to tune your ears to the distinctive call note, a clear and metallic 'st-it' or 'tzit', adding to the bird's unmistakable charm.

During the winter months, the male Grey Wagtail (on the left) undergoes a subtle transformation as his once prominent black throat fades away, and the vibrant yellow of his breast fades to a delicate pale hue. Similarly, the female's yellow tones transition to a warmer, buffy-white shade, adding a touch of softness to her appearance.

Young Grey Wagtails resemble females in appearance, albeit with some subtle distinctions. They tend to have a slightly buffier tone on their upperparts, and you may notice faint white wingbars beginning to emerge. The rump and undertail of juveniles exhibit a greener hue compared to adults, while their buffy underparts may display faint streaks on the breast, adding a touch of delicacy to their youthful plumage.