176 On the Ornithology of Wilts [Silviadce]. 



hair, while that of the willow warbler contains feathers. To Gil- 

 bert White is due the credit of separating and calling attention to 

 the points of difference between these closely allied species, and his 

 19th letter to Pennant is entirely occupied with this subject. The 

 wood warbler (called by White the "Sibilous Pettychaps,") is a 

 trifle larger than its congeners, and has a remarkable tremulous note ; 

 hence its scientific name : it is not so numerous as the other species, 

 but it visits us annually, and I have often met with its nest near 

 Devizes. 



"Willow Warbler." (Sylvia trochilus.) This is by far the most 

 abundant of the genus, and may be seen in every plantation and 

 hedgerow, but chiefly in meadows intersected with streams and 

 water courses, which give birth to osiers and willows, for amongst 

 these it delights to revel. In addition to the points of difference 

 mentioned above, it far surpasses its congeners in song, indeed so 

 sweet and musical are its notes, as to give it the sobriquet of the 

 "Warbling Pettychaps," and " Melodious Willow Wren." Gilbert 

 White says it has a "joyous, easy, laughing note ;" it is constantly 

 in motion, flitting from branch to branch, in search of the smaller 

 insects that constitute its food. 



" Chiff Chaff." (Sylvia hippolais.) This is one of our earliest 

 spring arrivals, making its appearance in March, and immediately 

 beginning its monotonous song of two notes, which it continues to 

 repeat throughout the summer, and from whence it derives its name. 

 It is the smallest of the three species, and differs very little from 

 the last, but may be always distinguished by the dark colour of its 

 legs and feet, those of the Willow Warbler being of a pale brown : 

 it is much more familiar than its congeners, and as it reaches us be- 

 fore the trees and hedges are in leaf, is more frequently seen and 

 better known. It is sometimes styled the "Lesser Pettychaps, and 

 is sprightly and active. 



" Dartford Warbler." (Melizophilus Dartfordiensis.) I have 

 many instances before me of the occurrence of this pretty little 

 warbler in Wiltshire, though I have no personal acquaintance with 

 it in a living state. It is said to frequent open Downs and com- 

 mons abounding in furze, in the thickest parts of which it will 



