Wood Warbler look-alikes
Phylloscopus sibilatrix
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Wood Warbler. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Chiffchaff
Phylloscopus collybita
Key differences
The Chiffchaff is smaller and duller, with olive-brown upperparts and buffish-white underparts, lacking the bright yellow throat and breast of the Wood Warbler. Its legs are typically dark (though can be pale), and its primary projection is shorter. The song is a repetitive 'chiff-chaff, chiff-chaff'.
Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus trochilus
Key differences
The Willow Warbler is also smaller and duller than the Wood Warbler, with olive-green upperparts and yellowish-white underparts. It has a less prominent supercilium and typically pale legs, similar to the Wood Warbler. However, its primary projection is shorter, and its song is a distinctive, fluid, descending cascade of notes.
Greenish Warbler
Phylloscopus trochiloides
Key differences
The Greenish Warbler has a single pale wing-bar (sometimes faint or absent), which the Wood Warbler lacks. It is generally duller green above and whiter below, without the strong yellow on the throat and breast. Its call is a sharp 'chup' and its song is a rapid, rattling trill.
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