What does the Western Yellow Wagtail eat?

The Western Yellow Wagtail's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide range of small invertebrates.

How it forages

Forages primarily on the ground or in low vegetation, actively running and walking to catch insects. They also make short, agile flights to snatch flying insects (hawking) and may glean insects from foliage. Their diet includes flies, beetles, aphids, caterpillars, and other small arthropods. Often seen near livestock, feeding on insects attracted to or disturbed by the animals.

When it feeds

Diurnal. Most active during daylight hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, foraging for food and tending to nests.

Explore the Western Yellow Wagtail