Unknown Warbler

Dae · #1 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 10:36 AM

Just got back last night from our 4 day trip to West Sussex, had a good time despite the weather. Saw many great birds, including a few new ones. I got to see my very first wheatear pair, which was an absolute delight. Saw more waders than I could possibly identify or count, it was simply a joy to be there.

I have one for identification that I'm not sure of. I know it's a warbler of some type, and my first instinct was to say chiffchaff. It wasn't singing so I couldn't be sure. I'm including a rather poor photo of one, in hopes I can get a bit of help with it.

Thanks a lot!

runnerwill · #2 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 11:22 AM

I'd agree with Chiffchaff

big bill · #3 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 12:46 PM

Have to agree on the Chiffchaff

VinceS · #4 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 02:05 PM

Dark legs and pale in wings indicate Chiffchaff - but very difficult to separate.

Vince

Ollie · #5 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 02:25 PM

I agree the darkish legs, although this can be somewhat variable indicate Chiffchaff to me.
Roger

Dae · #6 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 03:56 PM

Thanks everyone! I'm pleased to know I wasn't completely off-base with my idea of what this was. Really appreciate everyone taking the time. Chiffchaff it is

Graeme B · #7 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 04:31 PM

Hope you had a nice time here in Sussex.

I'd go for chiffchaff we get a few overwintering here, especially as the winter has been a mild one.

Did you get to visit Pulborough Brooks and Pagham?

Dae · #8 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 04:57 PM

Graeme, we spent most of time at pagham harbor nature reserve, I wish I could live there! I'd never have a dull moment

As I said in my intro post, I got to see my very first pair of wheatear over on the wall, which really was a delight. And the numbers of waders boggled the mind! I'd been there 2 times before, and every time I see something new. I could honestly spend most days browsing over the vast area of the reserve, it's too bad it's a 3hr drive from where I am in wales.

ChrisJB · #9 (**permalink**) 18-03-2008, 06:28 PM

It is indeed a chiffchaff.

Regards, Chris

Graeme B · #10 (**permalink**) 19-03-2008, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dae

Graeme, we spent most of time at pagham harbor nature reserve, I wish I could live there! I'd never have a dull moment

As I said in my intro post, I got to see my very first pair of wheatear over on the wall, which really was a delight. And the numbers of waders boggled the mind! I'd been there 2 times before, and every time I see something new. I could honestly spend most days browsing over the vast area of the reserve, it's too bad it's a 3hr drive from where I am in wales.

I know what you mean, Pagham is a fantastic place. I'm lucky as it's only 30 minutes away