Chiffchaff

Scientific name: Phylloscopus collybita

Did you know: That Chiffchaffs are known to imitate the songs of other birds? In fact, they have been known to mimic the songs of up to 20 different species! This behavior is thought to help the Chiffchaff establish its territory and attract a mate.

What The Chiffchaff Looks Like

The Chiffchaff is a small, brownish-grey bird, measuring about 10 – 11 cm in length, with a light brown breast and white throat. It has a thin, slightly curved beak and long, thin legs. Its wings are short and rounded, and it has a long, thin tail that it often flicks up and down while perching.

The male Chiffchaff has a distinctive, musical chiff-chaff call, which is how it gets its name.
The female Chiffchaff has a similar, but quieter call.
Both male and female Chiffchaffs have a brownish-grey crown and a thin, white eyering.

The easiest way to recognise the Chiffchaff is by its distinctive call and habit of flicking its tail.

Chiffchaff Images

Facts About The Chiffchaff

Diet: They eat insects and spiders
Bird Family: Warblers
Length: 10 - 11cm
Wingspan: 14 - 21cm
Weight: 6 - 10g
Scientific Name: Phylloscopus collybita

The Chiffchaff Can Be Seen In The UK During The Following Months

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December