What bizarre defensive behavior gives the species *Jynx torquilla* its common name, wryneck?
Answer
Contorting its neck in a serpentine, hissing display near the nest
The common name 'wryneck' is directly derived from the remarkable and unique defensive display exhibited by *Jynx torquilla* when it feels threatened, especially near its nest or young. Instead of engaging in the typical flight or aggressive response seen in other woodpeckers, this bird will often drop to the ground and engage in a highly theatrical performance. This display involves bizarre contortions of the neck, making it appear snake-like, accompanied by hissing sounds. Furthermore, this behavior is often enhanced by the secretion of a foul-smelling fluid, creating a comprehensive 'snake mimicry' designed to deter predators.
Related Questions
To which Order are wrynecks assigned alongside toucans and barbets?What foot structure characterizes birds within the Order Piciformes, including the wryneck?What structural adaptation do true woodpeckers possess that the genus *Jynx* lacks, defining a key separation?Which subfamily specifically separates wrynecks from the Picinae within the family Picidae?What bizarre defensive behavior gives the species *Jynx torquilla* its common name, wryneck?How does the primary feeding ecology of the wryneck contrast with most specialized woodpeckers in the family Picidae?What defining feature separates the genus *Jynx* from the various genera of true woodpeckers?Across which continents is the migratory Eurasian Wryneck (*Jynx torquilla*) widely distributed?The wryneck belongs to the **Family** Picidae, which is commonly known by what designation?Which designation represents a recognized non-nominate subspecies of the Eurasian Wryneck?