The wryneck is the only European woodpecker that regularly migrates between Europe and Africa.
The Eurasian wryneck breeds across Europe and much of temperate Asia. European populations migrate south to sub-Saharan Africa for winter, while some Asian populations move toward southern Asia. Unlike most woodpeckers, it is a regular long-distance migrant.
Its cryptic brown-and-gray plumage helps it blend into bark, and its unusual ability to twist its head contributed to the English name “wryneck.” It often nests in old woodpecker holes rather than excavating a new cavity itself.
The wryneck is still a woodpecker despite its slender body, barred camouflage, and ground-feeding habits. It is therefore easily mistaken for a small passerine, especially outside the breeding season.