Arctic Warbler look-alikes
Phylloscopus borealis
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Arctic Warbler. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus trochilus
Key differences
Willow Warbler is generally duller, lacks a prominent wing-bar (though some can show a very faint one), has darker legs, and a different song (a melancholic descending series of notes) and call (a softer 'hoo-eet'). Arctic Warbler has a much stronger supercilium and a striking wing-bar.
Chiffchaff
Phylloscopus collybita
Key differences
Chiffchaff is smaller, lacks a distinct wing-bar, has darker legs, and a distinct 'chiff-chaff' song. Arctic Warbler's supercilium is longer and more prominent.
Greenish Warbler
Phylloscopus trochiloides
Key differences
Greenish Warbler also has a wing-bar, but it is typically less prominent than that of the Arctic Warbler, and often has two wing-bars. Its supercilium is also less extensive. The song is very different, a repeated 'chup-chup-chup...chui-chui-chui' with rapid acceleration.
Pale-legged Leaf Warbler
Phylloscopus tenellipes
Key differences
Found in similar wintering grounds. Pale-legged Leaf Warbler is generally browner on the upperparts, has a longer bill, and a less distinct wing-bar (sometimes none). Its call is also distinct.
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