The red-throated wryneck, also known as the rufous-necked wryneck or red-breasted wryneck, is a species of wryneck in the woodpecker family closely related to the Eurasian wryneck. Its three subspecies are resident in much of sub-Saharan Africa in open habitats with some trees. It is a slim, elongated bird about 19 cm (7.5 in) in length, with a small head, fine bill, long fan-shaped tail and cryptic plumage intricately patterned in greys and browns. The sexes look similar, although males are slightly larger. The diet of the adults and young is almost entirely ants at all stages of their life cycles. The call of the red-throated wryneck is a series of repeated harsh, shrill notes. When threatened, a bird will twist its neck and head in a snake-like manner while making a hissing sound, presumably to deter predators.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found in open habitats with scattered trees, including savanna, open woodland, thornveld, edges of forests, farmland with tree cover, and parks and gardens. It avoids dense closed-canopy forest and the most arid treeless areas. Often associated with acacia and miombo woodlands and riparian corridors. Nests in tree cavities, fence posts, or occasionally buildings, close to foraging areas with abundant ants. Frequently perches conspicuously but relies on cryptic plumage when stationary.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A member of the woodpecker family that rarely drums or excavates, the red-throated wryneck specializes in feeding on ants using a long, sticky tongue. When threatened, it performs a snake-like head and neck twisting display while hissing, a behavior that gives wrynecks their name. It nests in existing cavities rather than digging its own, often using old woodpecker holes or natural tree hollows. Despite its cryptic plumage, the species is often detected by its sharp, repetitive calls.
J. r. pulchricollis in Ethiopia
Miombo woodland in Tanzania
Posture when relaxed (upper left) and when displaying
The lesser honeyguide is a brood parasite of red-throated wryneck nests.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with slightly undulating flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Both sexes use and defend cavity nest sites, often reusing them in successive seasons. Clutch is typically laid in a natural or previously excavated cavity; both parents share incubation and feeding duties. Juveniles accompany adults for a short period after fledging while learning local ant foraging sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of repeated harsh, shrill notes that carry well, often delivered from exposed perches. Calls can accelerate into a rapid, scolding sequence when alarmed or during territorial interactions.
Plumage
Finely mottled and barred greys and browns with intricate vermiculation, giving strong bark-like camouflage; long, fan-shaped tail shows dark barring.
Diet
Primarily ants at all life stages—adults, larvae, pupae, and eggs—gleaned from the ground, tree bark, and ant nests. Uses a long, sticky tongue to probe into crevices and shallow soil. Occasionally takes other small insects when available but remains a strong ant specialist. Foraging is methodical, with frequent pauses to probe and listen.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along ant trails, at anthills, on bare ground patches, and on tree trunks or fallen logs in open woodland and savanna. Often forages near nest sites to reduce travel, favoring mosaic habitats that combine short grass, bare ground, and scattered trees.
