Common breeder in deciduous woods, often near water. The first empid to arrive in spring. On migration, found in field and wood edges, where can be frustratingly difficult to gain views as it moves in and out of cover. Often fidgets, flicking wings and tail upward. Song ‘chi-bek;’. call a ‘whit.’ Typically the commonest empid, the one to learn well. ID: The smallest e. empid, it appears large-headed and chunky but with a fairly short, narrow tail. Other than size and shape, short bill is the most important ID feature. Primary projection is short. Eyering is usually bold. Plumage variable, often gray-headed and green-backed, others more uniformly brown/gray. Underparts off-white but sometimes with a yellow wash. Imm: buff wing bars.