| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
|
|---|
| Approximate size(adult): | About 18–20 cm in length; wingspan 25–28 cm; weight around 15–20 g. A slender bird with a grey back, bright yellow underparts, and a long black-and-white tail. In breeding plumage, males have a black throat patch.
|
|---|
| Resident/ Migrate from: | Migratory species — breeds in Europe, Central Asia, and the Himalayas.
|
|---|
| Migrate to: | Winters in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and the Malay Peninsula, frequenting streams and rivers.
|
|---|
| Breeding season: | April to July in northern breeding ranges. Builds a cup-shaped nest of moss and grass, often placed under bridges, rocks, or riverbanks. Usually lays 4–6 eggs.
|
|---|
| Breed in: | Prefers mountain streams, rivers, and freshwater bodies with rocky banks and open surroundings. Nests close to water.
|
|---|
| Habitat: | During winter, found near streams, lakes, irrigation canals, and paddy fields in both hills and plains. Constantly wags its long tail up and down while walking or foraging.
|
|---|
| Diet: | Primarily insectivorous, feeding on flies, beetles, mayflies, and aquatic larvae. Catches insects in flight or picks them off rocks and water surfaces.
|
|---|
