The Eurasian wryneck or northern wryneck is a species of wryneck in the woodpecker family. It mainly breeds in temperate regions of Europe and Asia. Most populations are migratory, wintering in tropical Africa and in southern Asia from Iran to the Indian subcontinent, but some are resident in northwestern Africa. It is a bird of open countryside, woodland and orchards.
Region
Europe and temperate Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of Europe and into temperate Asia, reaching from Iberia and the British Isles east through Russia to northern China and Mongolia, with small resident pockets in northwestern Africa. In winter it migrates to sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia. It favors open woodlands, orchards, hedgerows, and parklands with scattered trees and plentiful ant colonies. It often occurs along woodland edges, riverine strips, and traditional fruit-growing landscapes. Nesting depends on pre-existing cavities in trees, posts, or nest boxes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A cryptic member of the woodpecker family, the Eurasian wryneck famously twists its head snake‑like when threatened, a behavior that inspired its name. Unlike typical woodpeckers, it has a weak bill and feeds mainly on ants, using a long sticky tongue to probe nests. It readily uses natural cavities and old woodpecker holes and will accept nest boxes. Its subtle plumage makes it exceptionally well camouflaged on bark and branches.
In Norway
Eurasian wrynecks use their necks in display.
Eggs of Jynx torquilla
Temperament
shy and cryptic
Flight Pattern
bounding flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, forming loose associations at rich feeding sites. Nests in cavities, typically old woodpecker holes or nest boxes; both sexes incubate 7–10 glossy white eggs and feed the young. When disturbed at the nest it performs dramatic neck-twisting displays and hisses.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A series of clear, repeated, slightly nasal 'kwee' or 'quee' whistles that can carry over distance. Calls include soft chatters and harsh notes near the nest. The song is simple but persistent in spring.
