I think I heard a Chiffchaff at Paxton Pits

by Sophie
(St Neots, Cambridgeshire)

"I was out near Paxton Pits and think I heard a Chiffchaff, but it was just a single, soft 'hweet' sound every so often, not the full song. Is that normal?"


My Response: What a brilliant question, and great listening!

Yes, that's absolutely normal. You likely heard the Chiffchaff's 'contact call'. They use this soft 'hweet' to keep in touch with each other while they're foraging for insects.

The main 'chiff-chaff' song is for shouting about territory and attracting a mate, but this quieter call is their way of saying 'I'm over here!' to a partner.

It’s a much more intimate sound and a sure sign a bird is nearby, even if it isn't singing.

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