A wryneck at RSPB Rainham Marshes, 22nd August 2022.

A wryneck had been reported at Rainham the previous afternoon and when it was still present the following day, a trip had to be made. It was favouring a bush and the path by the old target range and a small group of birders were watching it just off the path. Brief views were obtained before someone coming from the opposite direction inadvertently flushed it, where it then perched for a while in the bush.

Wrynecks (Jynx torquilla) are part of the Woodpecker family and are smallish birds not much bigger than a Sparrow. We get about 300 records a year in the UK mostly in August/September. Fortunately, this one flew back down to the path allowing the chance for some shots as it foraged for ants and other insects.

A stunning bird with beautiful plumage, and one last shot of it hopping away.