Least Concern Birds

African Pied Wagtail

Motacilla aguimp

African Pied Wagtail, insect eater near water in rivers and wetlands.

Scientific name	Motacilla aguimp
Swahili name	Mchuchuma mweusi na mweupe
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Motacillidae
Size	Male: about 18-20 cm, weight about 25-30 g; Female: slightly smaller, slightly lighter in weight

See this species in the app

How to identify

Body feathers are sharply black and white, head and back are black; abdomen and underwings are white; tail is long and often swings up and down; legs are relatively long, suitable for ground activity; call is crisp and pleasant

Habitat

Commonly found near rivers, lakeshores, wetlands, and open grasslands, prefers open areas near water bodies

Diet

Mainly feeds on insects, preying on small invertebrates on the ground and near water

When it is active

Diurnal, active during the day, especially more active in early morning and late afternoon

Where it lives

Distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa; commonly seen in Maasai Mara National Reserve

How to spot it

Look near water edges or open wetland areas, pay attention to tail wagging and sharply contrasting black and white plumage, best photographed in early morning and late afternoon light

Photography tips

Use a medium to long telephoto lens to capture the moment of tail wagging, utilize natural light to highlight black and white contrast, wetland backgrounds enhance image depth

Threats

Habitat destruction and water pollution may affect local populations; overall population is stable

Similar species

Similar to the White Wagtail (Motacilla alba), the African Pied Wagtail has more distinct black and white plumage, a purer black head, and different tail wagging frequency

📖 how to spot the african pied wagtail on safari