BIRD #5 OF 45

Willie Wagtail

The Willie Wagtail is one of Australia’s most familiar and fearless birds. Curious and full of personality, it’s well known for constantly wagging its tail and boldly chasing much larger birds away from its territory.

You’ll often spot them in parks, paddocks and backyards, happily following people or livestock to catch disturbed insects.

  • HABITAT

    Woodland, grassland, farmland, parks & gardens

  • CONSERVATION STATUS

    Least Concern (LC)

  • LOCATION

    All states and territories

  • HOW TO SPOT IT

    ⚫ Small black and white bird with a long tail
    🤍 Bright white eyebrows, throat and belly
    ↕️ Constantly flicks and fans its tail
    🪰 Often seen darting after flying insects

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Despite its small size, the fearless Willie Wagtail will often chase away much larger birds - including eagles, kookaburras and even ravens - to defend its nest.