Red-throated Wryneck
Jynx ruficollis
The Red-throated Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis) is a uncommon woodpecker found in 15 countries, weighing about 46 g. 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.
About the Red-throated Wryneck
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…
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How to identify it
The red-throated wryneck grows to about 19 cm (7.5 in) in length. The sexes are very similar in appearance, and cannot be distinguished in the field, but the male averages 2–3% larger than the female, has a shorter tail, and is heavier at 52–59 g (1.8–2.1 oz) against her 46–52 g (1.6–1.8 oz). It is a slim, elongated bird with a small head, fine bill, long fan-shaped tail and a body shape unlike that of a typical woodpecker. The overall impression is of cryptic plumage patterned with greys, browns and black. Voice: The call of the red-throated wryneck is a series of repeated harsh, shrill notes kweek-kwik-kwee-quee, usually slower than the call of the Eurasian wryneck. It is a far-carrying territorial call given from a prominent perch. There is also a peegh alarm call followed by a repeated harsh krok. Young in the nest make wheezing squeaks initially, later a repeated buzzing tsch.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Cameroon, Central African Republic.
When to see it
The Red-throated Wryneck can be seen all year round, with peak activity in October. It is a resident species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Red-throated Wryneck?
- The red-throated wryneck grows to about 19 cm (7.5 in) in length. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Red-throated Wryneck?
- The Red-throated Wryneck is a small sized bird weighing about 46 g.
- Where can you see a Red-throated Wryneck?
- The Red-throated Wryneck occurs in 15 countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda and Eswatini.
- What birds look similar to a Red-throated Wryneck?
- The Red-throated Wryneck is most easily confused with the Eurasian Wryneck.
- Is the Red-throated Wryneck endangered?
- The Red-throated Wryneck is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the Red-throated Wryneck for real
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