What they like

Open spots with short vegetation and some wet edges. Farmyard, parking lot, sports field, construction site, field path: as long as there's bare ground and insects. Help them out: mow in phases, leave strips a bit rougher, keep one patch of grass short and leave a messy corner somewhere. Create a small shallow water or mud patch. Leave gaps and ledges on sheds and barns; they likes to nest there.

Ecological importance

A fast-moving insect-eater. Takes flies, mosquitoes, beetles, larvae and spiders from the ground and from the air. Fewer insects = fewer wagtails. And chicks really need lots of little critters.

When in the Netherlands

All year round. Most birds spend the winter in Morocco; some take a chance and stay here.

Status

Common. Does well in the cultural landscape, but relies heavily on a rich supply of insects and varied management.