Hume’s Warbler
Phylloscopus humei
Hume's Warbler is a rare migrant to Britain, typically seen in the autumn, with most sightings occurring in the eastern counties, particularly during periods of easterly winds. It is a small, inconspicuous bird that can be easily overlooked, but its presence is a notable event for British birdwatchers.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Hume’s Warbler in the field.
The Hume's Warbler can be identified by its pale yellowish-brown upperparts, white underside, and distinctive white eye-ring, as well as its lack of wing bars. Its short, pointed bill and rounded tail are also notable features.
The Hume's Warbler is smaller than a Chiffchaff, measuring around 9-10 cm in length, which is roughly the same size as a Goldcrest.
The male Hume's Warbler has a dull greenish-brown back, wings, and tail, with a pale yellowish-brown crown and a white underside, although the plumage can appear more subdued in autumn.
The female Hume's Warbler is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage, making it challenging to distinguish between the sexes in the field.
The Hume's Warbler has a high-pitched, tinkling call, often described as a series of descending notes, which can be heard during migration and in its wintering grounds.
Hume's Warblers are active, insectivorous birds that forage for food in trees and shrubs, often flitting between branches in search of small invertebrates, and can be seen making short, darting flights as they migrate through Britain.
The Hume's Warbler can be confused with the Yellow-browed Warbler, but it lacks the distinctive yellow brow of the latter species, and its white eye-ring is less prominent, although the two species can be difficult to distinguish, particularly in poor viewing conditions.
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