Eurasian Wryneck

Jynx torquilla

The Eurasian Wryneck is a unique species of woodpecker that summers across Europe. Its name derives from an odd defense technique, in which the bird will twist its head almost 180° in an attempt to confuse attackers. Medieval Europeans thought the bird was trying to put an evil spell on them, hence its scientific name.

03.24.2011 - Seville, Spain

James found this Eurasian Wryneck perched in a low tree at Parque Alamillo, just north of Seville, Spain. Usually wrynecks are found feeding on the ground, blending in with their cryptic coloration and probing for worms and insects with their short bills.