Common Chiffchaff

Habitat: Originally, the Common Chiffchaff was undoubtedly a breeding bird of forest areas, and it is not very clear when exactly it adapted to more anthropogenic habitats. Nowadays, the species is also common in parks, poplar plantations (with undergrowth of brambles) and pine and spruce plantations. Undergrowth is also accepted, although there should preferably be a few slightly higher singing perches. In Flanders, the Chiffchaff even occurs in rows of pollarded willows with undergrowth of brambles.

Appearance: Summer visitor in the north and east, winter visitor in the south and west of Europe. Yearling – migratory – passerine in large numbers – winter visitor in small numbers.

Breeding season: April – July, nest close to the ground, 4 – 6 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 10 – 11 cm, wingspan 15 – 21 cm, weight 6.5 – 11.2 grams, age 8 years.

Food: Small insects and berries.