The way that some birds flick, wag, or flare their tails can be distinctive. A flicking or flashing tail might suggest to a predator that a bird is particularly alert or hard to catch, while also warning others in the flock of danger. Tail flicking can also help flush out prey. A Hooded Warbler -- or a Song Sparrow, like this one -- may flare its tail while foraging low to the ground to cause insects to jump, making them easier prey.
More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.
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