African Pied Wagtail.
Motacilla aguimp.
Perhaps the most graceful bird in West Africa and certainly one of the tamest.
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African Pied Wagtail. Motacilla aguimp. Perhaps the most graceful bird in West Africa and certainly one of the tamest. |
| Recognition: Small. Head, body, wings and tail show black and white. A white eyebrow is conspicuous on the black head and a black breast patch contrasts with the white underparts. The black back distinguishes it from other wagtails, though young birds have grey backs. Behaviour distinguishes it from all other black and white birds. |
| Distribution: Widespread in West Africa, but not in very dry country and not extending west of Sierra Leone. |
| Habits: Often in small parties. Its quick darting flight, with incessant bobbing movements of the tail when on the ground, make it unmistakable. Very often seen on roadsides, near streams and on house-roofs. Insects are taken low in the air as well as on the ground. Nests are made in banks and against buildings in the early rains. |
| Call: A call of "Chizzic" and a sweet musical song of high-pitched notes. |
