Eurasian Wryneck
Image: 鐦鍆錒（锎钔锕） (cc-by-nc)
NameEurasian Wryneck
Common NameEurasian Wryneck
Scientific NameJynx torquilla
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsCryptic, bark-like plumage with intricate patterns of grey, brown, black, and buff. A dark stripe runs from the eye to the back of the neck, and a prominent dark streak extends down the back. The underparts are paler, buffish-white, with fine dark barring.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, high-pitched, repeated 'que-que-que-que' call, often described as a kestrel-like 'kew-kew-kew'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, orchards, parks, gardens, forest edges
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Europe and temperate Asia, migrating to tropical Africa and South Asia for the winter.
Identifying Featurescryptic mottled plumage, long, extensible tongue, neck-twisting display (wrynecking), ground-foraging behavior, lack of stiff tail feathers for support, distinctive 'kew-kew-kew' call
Description
The Eurasian Wryneck is a small, cryptic woodpecker known for its unique neck-twisting defense display. It possesses mottled brown and grey plumage, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark and ground litter. Unlike typical woodpeckers, it primarily forages on the ground for ants.
