Passeriformes / Motacillidae / Motacilla
Japanese Wagtail
Motacilla grandis · 日本鹡鸰
Introduction
A passerine bird in the pipit and wagtail family Motacillidae. Native to Japan and Korea, with vagrant records in Taiwan, eastern China, and far-eastern Russia. Inhabits inland wetlands, arable land, and urban areas. Feeds exclusively on insects. Forms large roosting flocks in trees. Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population.
Description
A small wagtail approximately 20 cm in length. Sexes are monomorphic with black upperparts, throats, and backs, contrasting white underparts and prominent white supercilia. The bill is black, and legs and feet are dark grey. Juveniles display duller, greyer plumage compared to the striking black-and-white adults.
Distribution & Habitat
Resident throughout Japan and Korea. Occasional vagrants recorded in Taiwan, eastern China, and far-eastern Russia. Occupies habitats near water including inland wetlands, agricultural areas, and urban environments. Does not undertake long-distance migrations.
Behavior & Ecology
Insectivorous, feeding on various terrestrial and aquatic insects. Highly gregarious, especially at roosts where large numbers gather in trees. Nests are constructed in cavities near water bodies. Both parents share incubation duties and chick-rearing. Clutches consist of 4-6 eggs.
Conservation
IUCN Red List assessment: Least Concern. Population trend is stable across its range. No significant threats identified at present.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Motacillidae
- Genus
- Motacilla
Distribution
breeds Japanese Islands; winters to China, Korea, and Taiwan
Data Sources
Species description from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Bird images and sounds sourced from GBIF, contributed by citizen scientists worldwide under Creative Commons licenses.
Taxonomy data from AviList 2025.
