What kind of bird is the Japanese Wagtail? We will explain its characteristics, ecology, and habitat. This bird is very famous in Japan, and can also be seen on the Korean Peninsula. In Japan, it is a resident bird and can be seen almost all year round, so why not start by observing it?
What is a Sekirei? Basic Stats
The Japanese Wagtail is a species of bird classified in the Wagtail genus of the passerine order and family Motacillaidae. Its scientific name is Motacilla grandis, its English name is Japanese Wagtail, and its kanji name is Sekuro Wagtail. Its total length is 17-21cm, its wingspan is 28-30cm, and its weight is 25-30g. A list of information is as follows:
| Japanese（和名） | セグロセキレイ |
| English（英名） | Japanese Wagtail |
| scientific name(学名) | Motacilla grandis |
| classification（分類） | Aves、 Passeriformes、 Motacillidae、Motacilla 鳥綱、スズメ目、セキレイ科、セキレイ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | LEAST CONCERN |
| Length（体長） | 17～21cm |
| Weight（体重） | 25～30g |
Habitat
The Japanese Wagtail is a species endemic to Japan. As a resident bird, it can be seen almost throughout the country (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu) throughout the year. Breeding observations have also been recorded in Korea and the Primorsky Krai of Russia.
What are its characteristics? What kind of creature is it?
The Japanese Wagtail is black from the head to the back, and has a white stripe above the eye. It can be difficult to distinguish it from the White Wagtail, but you can tell them apart because there are black areas from the eyes to the cheeks, shoulders, and back. It is a bird that lives near water, and prefers rivers and lakes from plains to low mountain areas.
What is its ecology?
The Japanese Wagtail is mainly insectivorous, and also eats plant seeds. It is an oviparous breeding method. It breeds once a year, and usually lays 4-6 eggs between March and July. The incubation period is three to four months. The chicks leave the nest in about 14 days, so they are very quick to become independent. It is said that it lives for less than 10 years.
Does it have any natural enemies?
The Japanese Wagtail’s natural enemies are crows and hawks.
Is the Japanese Wagtail an endangered species?
The Japanese Wagtail is classified as a species of least concern, and is not endangered. It is kept in zoos and other places, and events are held, so check out the information and take part.
Can you keep a Japanese Wagtail as a pet?
The Japanese Wagtail is managed by the Ministry of the Environment under the Wildlife Protection and Management Act, and feeding it is prohibited.
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