Wryneck (Jynx torquilla) by m. geven

Here’s a video of a wryneck. This bird gets its name from its ability to turn its head almost 180 degrees. When disturbed or threatened, the bird uses this snake-like head twisting movement along with a hissing noise to ward off danger.

The wryneck’s scientific name is Jynx torquilla. Torquilla is from the latin word torqueo meaning “to twist” or “little twister”. This is in reference to the way the bird moves its head. Due to this odd movement, the bird is believed to have been used in witchcraft. Hence the term, jinx from Jynx or “to put a jinx on someone”.