Least Concern

Length about 21–23 cm; weight ~25–30 g. Large wagtail with black upperparts, white underparts, and a prominent white supercilium (eyebrow). Long tail often wagged up and down.

Resident throughout its range in India and nearby regions. Populations are mostly sedentary, though local movements may occur with seasonal water availability.

Does not undertake long-distance migration; may disperse locally to find food or water.

Typically March to September, peaking around pre-monsoon and monsoon months. Males perform displays and singing near water bodies.

Nests are shallow cups of grass, roots, and small twigs, usually placed on cliffs, boulders, riverbanks, or buildings near water. Clutch size is 3–4 eggs. Both parents incubate and feed the chicks.

Prefers riverbanks, wetlands, lakes, irrigation canals, and open areas near water. Often seen in urban water bodies and agricultural fields.

Primarily insects, including flies, beetles, and other small invertebrates. Feeds on the ground or near water, sometimes picking prey from vegetation or shallow water.