Image via Macaulay Library
African Pied Wagtail
- Scientific name
- Motacilla aguimp
- Family
- Motacillidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Wetland marsh
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Forked
Where it came from
The African Pied Wagtail, known scientifically as Motacilla aguimp, is a prominent member of the Motacillidae family found across sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its stark, high-contrast black-and-white plumage, a result of evolutionary adaptation for species recognition and signaling in diverse environments ranging from wetlands to urban gardens. Its distinct physical profile, including a notably pointed wing shape optimized for rapid, agile flight and a slightly forked tail used for balance while foraging, distinguishes it from other wagtail species.
First formally documented in 1811 by the French ornithologist Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot, the species was categorized based on specimens collected during early European explorations of the African continent. The taxonomy reflects a long history of naturalists observing its behavior, particularly its habit of habitually wagging its tail, which is thought to aid in flushing out insect prey. Within the scientific community, it is regarded as a quintessential example of avian adaptation, noted for its successful colonization of both natural riverine habitats and human-altered landscapes.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About African Pied Wagtail
African Pied Wagtail is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track African Pied Wagtail on collecto.rs?
African Pied Wagtail doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of African Pied Wagtail?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the African Pied Wagtail catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for African Pied Wagtail is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
