The White-Browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) is a medium-sized Asian bird, also known as the Large Pied Wagtail.

The White-Browed Wagtail is black and white, with black upperparts, head, and chest, and white underparts. It has a prominent white brow, shoulder stripe, and outer tail feathers. It has a black forehead. It is slender with a long, constantly wagging tail.

White-Browed Wagtail

It is the largest member of the wagtail family, measuring 21 centimetres (8 inches) tall.

The White-Browed Wagtail is native to South Asia, such as India, the Himalayas, and west Bangladesh. It prefers wetlands, and small bodies of freshwater, such as ponds and lakes. It is commonly found in urban areas.

The White-Browed Wagtail is insectivorous, but will also eat spiders.

It is usually seen in pairs or small groups. It builds its cup-shaped nest on the ground, on rocks, or in a hole, ledge or mud bank. The nest is always close to water, and is made of grass and algae. Females lay 3-5 eggs.

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM