About the Cape Wagtail
The Cape wagtail, also known as Wells's wagtail, is a small insectivorous bird which is widespread in southern Africa. It frequents water's edge, lawns and gardens. It is a mostly resident, territorial species, but has been known to undertake limited altitudinal migration or form flocks outside of the breeding season. Like other wagtails they are passerine birds of the family Motacillidae, which also includes the pipits and longclaws.
Source: Wikipedia
Taxonomy & Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Wagtails and Pipits (Motacillidae) |
| Species | Motacilla capensis |
| Species Codes | capwag1, CAWA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What family does the Cape Wagtail belong to?
The Cape Wagtail (Motacilla capensis) belongs to the Wagtails and Pipits family (Motacillidae), in the order Passeriformes.
How can I identify the Cape Wagtail?
The Cape wagtail, also known as Wells's wagtail, is a small insectivorous bird which is widespread in southern Africa. It frequents water's edge, lawns and gardens. It is a mostly resident, territorial species, but has been known to undertake limited altitudinal migration or form flocks outside of t...
Where can I report a Cape Wagtail sighting?
You can log sightings of Cape Wagtail on eBird (ebird.org) using species code capwag1, or on iNaturalist.
Related Species in Wagtails and Pipits 70 species
More Birds in Order Passeriformes
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