Motacilla cinerea, commonly known as the Grey Wagtail, is primarily found across Europe and parts of Asia. It is native to regions spanning from the British Isles and Eastern Europe to parts of the Middle East, Central Asia, and East Asia, including countries like the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Turkey, Iran, India, China, and Japan.

The Grey Wagtail typically inhabits environments near fresh water, such as rivers, streams, and lakes, where it can find abundant insects to feed on. These areas often have rocky substrates, providing suitable conditions for nesting and foraging.

As an insectivorous bird, the Grey Wagtail plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations in its aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. It often constructs its nests close to the water, using natural crevices and hollows amongst rocks or man-made structures. During the winter, it may also occupy more urban areas or milder lowland regions where water sources remain unfrozen.