Motacilla
- proper noun
- Specialized
- The genus Motacilla includes several species of wagtails found across Eurasia and Africa.
Examples
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A yellow wagtail, scientifically known as Motacilla flava, is a common sight in these meadows.
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Researchers observed the nesting habits of Motacilla in the river valleys of northern Europe.
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Look at that Motacilla hopping along the shore!
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The Motacilla species are often found near water.
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The genus Motacilla is known for its distinctively elegant wagtails that often inhabit wetland areas.
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Ornithologists often study Motacilla to understand the migratory patterns of these agile birds.
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A flock of Motacilla can often be seen darting near the edge of ponds during the spring.
Synonyms
A group of small birds like wagtails that often move their long tails up and down
Compounds
- Specialized
A group of small birds like wagtails that often move their long tails up and down
Surface Forms
Etymology
Motacilla comes from the Latin word motacilla, built on the root mot- meaning 'move', like the English word 'move'. It likely meant 'little mover', which fits the wagtail, a small bird that is always moving and wagging its tail.
