Wryneck
Jynx torquilla
The Wryneck (Jynx torquilla) is a bird in the Picidae family. It typically measures 16-17cm in length. Its conservation status is Least Concern.
| Length | 16-17cm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 35 g |
| Lifespan | up to 10 years |
| Family | Picidae |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
Appearance of the Wryneck
The Wryneck is slender, with a small head, legs and bill. The plumage is very well camouflaged so that it blends in effectively with tree bark. It is mottled with grey, brown and black on top; it's pale beneath but delicately barred, and the throat is buffish and also barred. It has a dark strip across the eye which goes down over the crown to the middle of the back. Juveniles resemble adults but the dark strip is less vivid.
Where does the Wryneck live?
When populations were larger in the region, Wrynecks inhabited parkland and orchards. When in Europe they live in pine woods, clearings, and the edges of woods.
Wryneck behaviour
Mostly eats when it is grounded, hopping in a stilted manner. When in flight it usually travels quite low.
What does the Wryneck eat?
Mostly eat ants, but also feed on beetles, grasshoppers, flies, butterflies, moths and spiders.
Wryneck breeding & nesting
Female lays 7-10 eggs in a hole-nest and both parents incubate for 11-14 days. Both adults feed the young, which fly after about 18-22 days.
Wryneck population
Majority of Bee-eaters are migratory, although there are resident populations around the Mediterranean. Many birds head south between August and October, and travel back to breeding territories for March and May. A scarce few birds are thought to breed in the Scottish Highlands, otherwise up to 300 individuals may visit some years, mostly lost on their way to or from Scandinavia.
How to spot the Wryneck
During September, England's south and east coasts are the most promising areas to search for this bird, especially following or during easterly or southeasterly winds.
What does the Wryneck sound like?
Has a shrill 'quee, quee, quee' call which it usually uses on breeding territory.
