Common name: Eastern Yellow Wagtail
Scientific name: Motacilla tschutschensis
Family: Motacillidae

Size:
Body length: 15–17 cm
Wingspan: 23–27 cm
Weight: 15–25 g

Identification:
A slender wagtail with bright yellow underparts and a long constantly wagging tail. Plumage varies between subspecies and seasons, but most individuals show olive to grey upperparts with vivid yellow below. The head pattern can range from grey to darker tones, often with pale facial markings. The tail is long with white outer feathers visible during flight.

Habitat:
Wetlands, grassy fields, agricultural land, marshes, coastal flats, and open ground near water.

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

Status in Lebanon:
Passage migrant during migration seasons.

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

Behavior:
Highly active and usually seen walking quickly on the ground while wagging its tail. Frequently feeds near livestock, shallow water, or muddy edges where insects are abundant. Often occurs singly or in small flocks during migration.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)