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 DetailsThe plumage is highly cryptic, featuring a complex pattern of grey, brown, black, and buff mottling and barring across the back and wings. A dark stripe extends from the eye to the nape, and a prominent dark streak runs down the center of the back. The underparts are paler, with fine dark barring.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, repetitive, high-pitched 'que-que-que-que' or 'wee-wee-wee-wee', often described as similar to a kestrel's alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, orchards, parks, gardens, forest edges, scrubland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate Europe and Asia, migrating south to tropical Africa and South Asia for the winter months.
Identifying Featurescryptic, mottled brown and grey plumage, snake-like neck twisting display when threatened, often seen foraging on the ground, long, extensible tongue for ant-eating, distinctive kestrel-like call
Description
The Eurasian Wryneck is a small, cryptically patterned woodpecker known for its ability to twist its head almost 180 degrees, resembling a snake. It primarily forages on the ground for ants, using its long, sticky tongue.
