Might be tempted to go with Willow warbler but agin will wait for the experts.
(bit oof, sorry)
Dark legs are not definitive as a method of ID, having seen many of both species in the hand at ringing sessions, its surprising the range of leg colour in the field. Though birds with really black legs are thought to be nearly all Chiffchaffs.
Song is a great pointer, and Chiffchaffs are supposed to only sing in Bushes / trees above 5 metres high.
Wing length (primary Projection) is shorter in Chiffs just reaching the rump, but not always apparent in the field.
I think this is a Chiffchaff based on, 1- Shorter wing length, 2- Overall greyer appearance, 3- Head shape, slightly more rounded than a Willow warbler.
Never mind its a nice image, and im sure you will have plenty of chances to hear and see these canny birds.
One other pointer is Chiffchaffs tend to flick their tails when feeding, Willows hardly ever do this.
Good to see a bit of knowledge posted on here Brian even if we are still not sure
Dark legs are not definitive as a method of ID, having seen many of both species in the hand at ringing sessions, its surprising the range of leg colour in the field. Though birds with really black legs are thought to be nearly all Chiffchaffs.
Song is a great pointer, and Chiffchaffs are supposed to only sing in Bushes / trees above 5 metres high.
Wing length (primary Projection) is shorter in Chiffs just reaching the rump, but not always apparent in the field.
I think this is a Chiffchaff based on, 1- Shorter wing length, 2- Overall greyer appearance, 3- Head shape, slightly more rounded than a Willow warbler.
Never mind its a nice image, and im sure you will have plenty of chances to hear and see these canny birds.
One other pointer is Chiffchaffs tend to flick their tails when feeding, Willows hardly ever do this.