White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन - Birds Around Me 0072

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The White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis), also known as खंजन in Hindi, is a fascinating bird that amateur birders will enjoy observing.

As the largest wagtail species, the White-browed Wagtail measures about 21 cm in length. Its striking black-and-white plumage features a prominent white eyebrow (supercilium) that runs from the bill to the back of its head. The wings display a bold white bar, while the underparts are entirely white.

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन Devtal, Jabalpur, MP, India October 2023
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन 
Devtal, Jabalpur, MP, India
October 2023

True to its name, this bird constantly wags its tail. It is often found near water bodies, where it runs around or perches on rocks, rooftops, or wires. Known for being vocal, it produces a loud, clear whistle and a distinctive "psi-sit" call while in flight.

This species resides near freshwater wetlands, rivers, and lakes and is a resident breeder in the Indian subcontinent. It has adapted well to urban environments and is frequently seen near human settlements. The best time to spot them is early morning, as they are most active during this time.

Apart from its charm, the White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन  holds cultural significance in India, often celebrated in phrases that describe sharp and beautiful eyes. 

Hindi Name of Knob-billed Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos): नख्ता, नख़्वा 
Some photographs of White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन:

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन Devtal, Jabalpur, MP, India October 2023
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन 
Devtal, Jabalpur, MP, India
October 2023

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन Devtal, Jabalpur, MP, India October 2023
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन 
Devtal, Jabalpur, MP, India
October 2023

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन Sanjivini Nagar, Jabalpur, MP, India November 2017
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन 
Sanjivini Nagar, Jabalpur, MP, India
November 2017

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन Sanjivini Nagar, Jabalpur, MP, India November 2017
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन 
Sanjivini Nagar, Jabalpur, MP, India
November 2017

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन Sanjivini Nagar, Jabalpur, MP, India November 2017
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) खंजन 
Sanjivini Nagar, Jabalpur, MP, India
November 2017

Birds Around Me - Ashutosh Jhureley

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