Wryneck
Jynx torquilla
A curious, cryptic (camouflaged) woodpecker with intricately patterned plumage of greys, browns, and buffs that help it blend into bark or leaf litter. Known for twisting its neck in a snake-like motion when threatened, giving it its name. Wrynecks breed further east in continental Europe, but may turn up as scarce passage migrants on Lihou, foraging for ants on the ground in open or scrubby areas.
- Habitat: Open woodlands, orchard margins, heaths; during migration can appear on coasts.
- When to See: Mostly in spring or autumn migration periods.
- Diet / Food: Largely ants and their larvae, probed from soil or rotting wood.
- Length: 16–17 cm