Common name: Citrine Wagtail
Scientific name: Motacilla citreola
Family: Motacillidae

Size:
Body length: 16–18 cm
Wingspan: 23–27 cm
Weight: 18–26 g

Identification:
A graceful wagtail with bright yellow underparts and a long constantly wagging tail. Breeding males are especially striking, showing a vivid yellow head and underparts with contrasting grey upperparts. Females and non-breeding birds appear duller with less intense yellow coloration. The tail is long with white outer feathers visible in flight.

Habitat:
Wetlands, marshes, shallow pools, flooded fields, grassy edges of water bodies, and coastal lagoons.

Status in the UAE:
Passage migrant and winter visitor, regularly recorded in wetlands and agricultural areas.

Status in Lebanon:
Passage migrant, mainly during spring and autumn migration.

Diet:
Insectivorous — feeds on insects, larvae, flies, and other small invertebrates.

Behavior:
Usually active on open ground near water, walking or running while constantly wagging its tail. Frequently feeds in shallow wet areas and grassy margins. Often seen singly or in small loose groups, sometimes mixed with other wagtails during migration.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)