Old birds are not caught with chaff
This proverb means that experienced and knowledgeable individuals are not easily fooled or misled. Just as older, wiser birds are less likely to be caught by hunters using cheap bait like chaff, seasoned individuals are less likely to be taken in by scams or deceitful tactics.
Below is the art work 'Old birds are not caught by chaff' by John Arthur Lomax (1857–1923)
Three gentlemen in hunting dress, gathered around a small parlour table in discussion. An elderly man sits in a wooden chair to the left, leaning against the table and talking to two younger men, one seated at the table with his arms folded, the other, wearing a riding hat and carrying a crop, standing leaning against the table. In the background to the right there is a small mullioned window with heavy curtains, to the left is a tall grandfather clock. Looking at the vivid facial expression as if I can hear the elderly man is passing his wisdom to the younger generation.
