On the type specimens of Locustella ochotensis (Middendorff, 1853) in the collection of the Zoological Institute, St. Petersburg (Aves: Sylviidae)

Abstract. Individual variation of the size and plumage colour in three type specimens of Middendorff’s Grasshopper Warbler, Locustella ochotensis is examined, the dates and localities of collecting are defined more exactly and the lectotype is designated. Examination of allpreserved specimens, collected by Middendorff, and of the original description show that he misidentified adult birds of L. ochotensis as L. certhiola. This is imorotant for understanding of the diagnosis of L. ochotensis based on characters of young birds in juvenile plumage.