Eastern Yellow Wagtail

The Eastern Yellow Wagtail, Motacilla tschutschensis, is a dainty passerine belonging to the family Motacillidae, which encompasses wagtails, pipits, and longclaws. This species exhibits the quintessential long, active tail associated with wagtails and measures approximately 15–16 cm in length.

Identification Tips

Adult males in breeding plumage are primarily olive above with a vibrant yellow underbelly. Non-breeding individuals may show a mix of yellow and white. The male's head can display a variety of colors and patterns, which vary by subspecies. The species is recognized by its slender build and the perpetual motion of its tail.

Habitat

The Eastern Yellow Wagtail favors open landscapes adjacent to water bodies, such as wet meadows, which provide ample foraging opportunities.

Distribution

Breeding grounds are found across the eastern Palearctic and extend into Alaska. The species migrates to South Asia and Australia, with vagrant sightings reported in locations such as Palau in Micronesia during migration periods.

Behaviour

This insectivorous bird selects tussocks within its preferred habitat for nesting, laying a clutch of 4–8 speckled eggs. It is known for its active foraging behavior in open areas.

Song & Calls

The Eastern Yellow Wagtail emits a distinctive high-pitched 'jeet', serving as an auditory hallmark of the species.

Breeding

The breeding habitat spans from Siberia to Alaska, with nests typically situated in tussocks. The bird's reproductive strategy involves laying speckled eggs, around 4–8 in number.

Similar Species

The Eastern Yellow Wagtail can be confused with the Western Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava) and the Citrine Wagtail (Motacilla citreola), though genetic studies have helped clarify the distinctions between these closely related species.

Diet and Feeding

As an insectivore, the Eastern Yellow Wagtail's diet consists primarily of insects, which it actively pursues in open, wet environments.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Eastern Yellow Wagtail as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.