Mountain wagtail

The mountain wagtail, also known as the long-tailed wagtail or grey-backed wagtail, is a species of wagtail of the family Motacillidae from sub-Saharan Africa.

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Distribution

Region

Sub-Saharan Africa

Typical Environment

Found along clear, rocky streams and rivers in forested and wooded landscapes from West and Central Africa through East Africa to southern Africa. Prefers shaded watercourses with boulders, cascades, and exposed perches, including under bridges and near waterfalls. Occasionally uses quiet pools adjacent to flowing sections, especially when feeding young. It avoids arid lowlands away from permanent water.

Altitude Range

0–2400 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size18–20 cm

Wing Span25–30 cm

Male Weight0.022 kg

Female Weight0.02 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

A slender, stream-loving wagtail that incessantly bobs and fans its very long tail as it forages on rocks and along riffles. Pairs often hold linear territories along clear, fast-flowing rivers and are good indicators of unpolluted water. Nests are usually tucked into crevices, banks, or under bridges close to splashing water.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

alert and active

Flight Pattern

undulating with short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs holding linear territories along streams. Monogamous pairs build cup nests of moss and rootlets in crevices, banks, or man-made structures near water. Both sexes participate in feeding the young, and family parties may linger along the natal stream after fledging.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Calls are sharp, high-pitched tsiip notes given in flight or from streamside perches. The song is a thin, tinkling series of phrases interspersed with call notes, often delivered from a low branch or rock above running water.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

Mountain yellow warbler

The Mountain yellow warbler is a medium sized bird with a mix of olive and yellow coloration. This bird is mostly found throughout the forests of Africa. We see this bird normally feeding on flies but sometimes on remaining crops from harvests. An easy way to recognize this bird is with its whistle-tone vocalizations. The Mountain Yellow Warbler is found on the Least Concern list for their conservation status. This bird is a species of Acrocephalidae warbler; formerly, these were placed in the paraphyletic "Old World warblers".

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Mourning collared dove

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Mourning dove

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