Grey Wagtail
Motacilla cinerea
Overview
Grey wagtails love fast water. Stock Ghyll. The Rothay. That yellow underparts. They wag. Long tail. Don't confuse with yellow wagtail. Grey has a grey back. Year-round on the becks.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Motacillidae |
| Habitat | Fast streams · Rivers · Becks |
| Diet | Aquatic insects. Picks from rocks. |
| UK population | Around 38,000 pairs. Declining. |
| Lake District | Common on Lakeland streams. Stock Ghyll. The Rothay. That yellow. They wag their tail. Fast water. Don't confuse with yellow wagtail. Grey has grey back. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Fast streams and rivers. Stock Ghyll, the Rothay, any Lakeland beck. That yellow underparts. Long tail.
Identification
Grey back. Yellow underparts. Long tail. Wags. Fast water. Male has black throat in summer.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Fast streams. Stock Ghyll. They're common. That yellow. Don't confuse with yellow wagtail.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.