The Lincolnshire Bird Club

A Chiffchaff has been seen in our garden over the last few days, it is carrying food and calling 'hweet' frequently. Clearly there must be a nest nearby and I am wondering whether it is usual for Chiffchaffs to have a second brood this far north in the country?

Comments appreciated.

Roy

Good Morning Roy,
We are catching more Chiffchaffs this year than ever before. I was ringing at Donington on Bain on Wednesday and we caught a total of 25 Chiffchaffs. You can get a rough idea of how young the first year birds are as to whether they have started their post juvenile body moult. Of the 25, over half had not started their PJ moult which suggests they have left the nest very recently. I am certain that the warm, dryish summer has contributed to many Chiffchaffs having a second brood.
Regards,
Stuart

Thanks for the response Stuart. I have now found the nest, it is in an ivy covered wall, about 4 feet from the ground and 20 yards from our back door. I have been passing within 3 feet of the nest when mowing my lawn without knowing it was there!
Food is still being delivered to the youngsters.

Roy