Eurasian Wryneck

The Eurasian wryneck, a member of the woodpecker family, is a bird that captivates with its slender, thrush-like form and its ability to twist its neck in a serpentine fashion. This bird, approximately 16.5 cm in length, boasts a plumage mottled with pale brown, rufous, and blackish bars, and streaks across its upperparts, while its underparts are a creamy white speckled with brown.

Identification Tips

To identify the Eurasian wryneck, look for its distinctive barred and mottled upperparts, cream underparts with brown speckles, and a shorter, less dagger-like bill compared to other woodpeckers. The juveniles resemble adults but have a softer, less defined coloration.

Habitat

The Eurasian wryneck is found in open countryside, woodlands, orchards, and sometimes in deciduous or coniferous forests. It has a preference for old trees and areas with abundant ant populations.

Distribution

This species breeds across temperate Europe and Asia, with migratory populations wintering in tropical Africa and southern Asia. Some populations are resident in northwestern Africa.

Behaviour

The Eurasian wryneck is known for its head-twisting ability, which it uses as a threat display when disturbed. It is often seen in pairs during the summer and may form small groups during migration. The bird exhibits a high-headed posture with a slightly upward-pointing beak and is capable of clinging to vertical surfaces.

Song & Calls

The call is a series of harsh, shrill notes, while the alarm call is a staccato "tuck." At the nest, the bird may hiss when disturbed.

Breeding

Nesting sites vary and may include tree holes, crevices, or even sand martin burrows. The wryneck lays a clutch of seven to ten white eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties.

Similar Species

The Eurasian wryneck is unique in its family for its neck-twisting behavior and lacks close visual similarities to other species within its range.

Diet and Feeding

Ants are the primary diet, but it also consumes beetles, larvae, moths, spiders, and woodlice. It forages on the ground and in trees, using its extendable tongue to pick up prey.

Conservation Status

The Eurasian wryneck is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN. Although its population may be decreasing, it is not at a rate that threatens the species' survival. Conservation efforts, such as the provision of nest boxes, have shown positive effects on population stability in some areas.