THE CHIEF-CHAFE. 
Sylvia rnfa. 
A rare species here, as well as in Orkney, appearing at about 
the same seasons as the Willow Warbler, and displaying very 
similar habits. It also seems as reluctant to leave. I have 
observed it as late as the 21st of November, long after the trees 
were bare, feeding low down among the bushes. I have good 
reason to believe that it has been seen in other parts of Shetland 
besides Unst, where alone it has hitherto been recognised ; 
although the few inhabitants who interest themselves in such 
matters make a different statement, at the same time being 
unable to name the two species when lying on the table before 
them. Indeed, the latter is not a very uncommon occurrence 
even in the case of some excellent practical ornithologists. 
Upon this very question, Mr Harting observes : — “ The Wood 
Wren, Willow Wren, and Chiff-Chaff all closely resemble each 
other, and by one not used to notice the distinctive characters 
of birds may be easily confounded. The Chiff-Chaff, however, 
may be known by its smaller size and darker colour, and the 
colour of its legs, which are dark brown. The legs of the 
Willow Wren are pale flesh colour, while the Wood Wren is a 
brighter green above, and a purer white beneath, the yellow 
line over the eye more distinct, the tail shorter, and the wings 
longer in proportion. In addition, the song of each differs 
sufflciently to afford, when at a distance, a good means of dis- 
tinction.”^ In the month of October, I have dazzled the Chiff- 
Chaff with a lantern, and taken it from a branch with my 
hand. 
Birds of Middlesex, p. 53. 
