The firmiana malayana or mata lembu, remains here in testimony to man's care-less-ness - its tree had since been felled. Let not the birds leave too.

Wednesday, 2 September 2026

Grey Wagtail

 And so the season has started, with a first sighting of a migrant Grey Wagtail in the taman.


Trivia

Scientific Meaning
Latin Name: Motacilla cinerea 
Motacilla means "to move about" (linked to tail movement), and cinerea means "ash-grey".

Why Do They Wag Their Tails?
Constant Motion: Scientists are still unsure of the exact reason, but they believe the tail wagging serves a purpose.
Predator Signal: One major theory suggests the movement shows predators that the bird is alert and healthy.
Flushing Prey: Another idea is that the motion scares hidden insects into moving so the bird can catch them. 


Incredible Adaptability
City Life: Wagtails live comfortably near humans. You can spot them in urban car parks, city parks, and gardens. 

Big Winter Roosts: During cold winter nights, these small birds gather in towns. Large groups can include thousands of birds sleeping together to stay warm. 

Unusual Nests: They build nests in odd places. Pairs often choose holes in old buildings, bridges, and even abandoned cars or machinery. 

(Source: AI)











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