Status
Conservation status
This species is Red-listed
according to Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland 2020-2026 and is of high
conservation value as a result.
Species Biology
Identification
The Grey Wagtail can be
identified by its grey upper parts, black throat and bright yellow under-tail.
The tail is typically longer than
the yellow or pied wagtail.
The beak is a dark grey and the
legs are a grey-pink colour.
The Grey Wagtail stands at
approximately 18 cm in length with a wingspan of 26 cm and weighing 18 grams.
Diet
This species is insectivorous and
can be seen hunting in the air or picking their prey from the soil at ground
level.
Habitat
This species is typically associated
with fast-flowing waters such as streams and rivers but may be found near some
lakes.
Reproduction
Most commonly found breeding near
streams and rivers where a clutch of 5 eggs will be laid from late April to
mid-June.
Eggs weighing approximately 1.9
grams are laid and will hatch after an incubation period of 13 days. The young
fledge after 14-15 days.
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
This species is of ‘Least
Concern’ on a European scale according to the IUCN Red List but their
population trend is unknown.
Irish distribution
Widespread resident found
throughout the country.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
The following map is interactive. If you would prefer to view it full screen then click here.
Further information
BirdWatch Ireland: https://birdwatchireland.ie/birds/grey-wagtail/
The Royal Society for the
Protection of Birds: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/grey-wagtail/
British
Trust for Ornithology: https://app.bto.org/birdfacts/results/bob10190.htm
IUCN
Red List: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22718392/111215843