Wood Warbler song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Wood Warbler, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The song is highly distinctive and consists of two main parts. It starts with a series of soft, high-pitched, accelerating 'pit-pit-pit-pit-pit' notes that build in intensity, followed by a rapid, shivering, trilling 'sisisisisisisisisi' that descends slightly in pitch and fades away. Often described as sounding like a coin spinning on a metal plate or a sewing machine. The two parts can be given separately or together.

Calls

The most common call is a soft, plaintive 'hoo-eet' or 'pee-oo', often given as a contact call or alarm. It can also give a sharp 'chip' or 'tchip' when agitated.

When they vocalize

Males sing frequently from arrival on breeding grounds in spring (late April/early May) through to late June or early July. They are most vocal in the mornings and evenings, and throughout the day when establishing territories or attracting mates. Calls are given year-round, but more frequently during migration and when disturbed.

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