The white wagtail is a slender bird, 16.5–19 cm in length, with the characteristic long, constantly wagging tail of its genus. Its average weight is 25 g.

The breeding season for most is from April to August, with the season starting later further north. Both sexes are responsible for building the nest, with the male responsible for initiating the nest building and the female for finishing the process. 

The population size is unknown, but it is believed to be large, as the species is described as "common" in at least parts of its range.