ChiffChaff (Phylloscopus collybita)

The Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita) is a small, insectivorous leaf warbler in the family Phylloscopidae, which was established just recently in 2006 in consideration of the fact that the bird displays behaviour such as flicking its wings as it searches foliage for insects along the branches of trees and bushes. The genus name, Phylloscopus, is derived from ancient Greek phullon (leaf) and skopos (seeker). The term Chiffchaff is, in fact, onomatopoeic, and references the rather mechanical way in which the bird sings its two-note, metronomic “chiff-chaff, chiff-chaff, chiff-chaff.” Interestingly, other European languages have similar names for the Chiffchaff: Dutch use “Tjiftjaf”, Germans use “Zilpzalp” and Welsh say “siff-saff”.

Its colour is somewhat bland, being comprised of an olive-green plumage with hints of brown and buff underparts. Chiffchaffs are almost indistinguishable from Willow warblers (see comparison below), and there’s often confusion between these two birds. Being only about the same size as a Blue tit (approximately 11cm in length), it is certainly one of the smaller birds in the UK, and to some degree of similar behaviour to a tit; energetic, lively and quick, especially when among trees and shrubs. In fact, the Chiffchaff is famed for its distinctive, quick tail-wagging movements.

Chiffchaffs are a very widespread leaf warbler, which all have a similar greenish appearance, and the Common Chiffchaff is difficult to distinguish from this crowd. Both females and male Chiffchaffs are similar in appearance; the only discernable difference is that the female is slightly smaller than male.

Feeding

Chiffchaffs are insectivorous birds, and prefer leaf insects such as caterpillars, gnats and midges. In fact, the term Phylloscopus means “leaf explorer”, as Chiffchaffs tend to feed on the undersides of leaves where aphids congregate due to the build up of sugary sap. They are also considerably keen on flies. In fact, so good is their aerial performance, they can feed mid-flight.

Habitat and behaviour

In certain parts of the UK, Chiffchaffs are resident all year round. In other parts (highlighted above), they are summer visitors only. Their arrival is quite early in relation to other migratory birds, coming in March from the Mediterranean and western Africa, where they spend the winter; and their arrival is marked by their distinct song. Male Chiffchaffs come to the UK up to three weeks earlier than females, and they are one of the last bird species to leave.

Your best chance of observing a Chiffchaff is by visiting a lowland woodland area, although they do sometimes visit parks and gardens – the latter (gardens) are usually only visited while Chiffchaffs are migrating southwards. Listen for their song (chiff-chaff, chiff-chaff) as they tend to dwell high up trees at the top, especially in wooded areas. Directly viewing one could prove difficult, as they are quick and relatively well-hidden birds.

Song

Breeding & nesting

Chiffchaffs begin their breeding process between April and May, which correlates with their early arrival to the UK in March. In any typical year, there can be up to two clutches produced, each containing between four-nine eggs, after which there is an incubation period of fourteen days. For a young Chiffchaff to fully fledge, around fifteen days is required. It is the responsibility of the female to build the nest, which is dome-shaped and often located near the ground, in tall grass, bushes or wall-creeping plants. In terms of parental care, male Chiffchaffs are not particular considerate fathers; they share at best an even share of responsibility, but for a large portion of the time it is the female that bears the responsibility for feeding young chicks.

Resources

• RSPB: Official page about the Chiffchaff
• BTO: Stats on population density of UK Chiffchaffs

Chiffchaff vs Willow warbler

It is common for Chiffchaffs to be confused with Willow warblers. Take a look below to see the difference between the two birds.