Head to head
Arabian Woodpecker vs Syrian Woodpecker
The Arabian woodpecker and Syrian woodpecker both occupy parts of the Middle East, but one is expanding its range while the other remains tightly confined.
| Arabian Woodpecker | Syrian Woodpecker | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Dendrocopos dorae | Dryobates syriacus |
| Range trend | Extremely restricted | Expanding |
| Native range | SW Saudi Arabia and Yemen mountains | Middle East, SE Europe |
| Habitat tolerance | Narrow, isolated woodland only | Broad, including orchards and gardens |
| Study status | Poorly studied | Well documented |
| Conservation status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Population trend | Stable | Increasing |
| Habitat | Forest, desert | Forest, grassland |
Arabian Woodpecker vs Syrian Woodpecker: common questions
Which species has the more restricted range, the Arabian woodpecker or the Syrian woodpecker?
The Arabian woodpecker has the far more restricted range, confined to a small number of isolated mountain woodland areas in southwestern Saudi Arabia and Yemen, while the Syrian woodpecker has been steadily expanding across the Middle East and southeastern Europe.
Why has the Syrian woodpecker been able to expand while the Arabian woodpecker has not?
The Syrian woodpecker shows a strong tolerance for orchards, parks, and gardens, allowing it to expand into human-modified landscapes, while the Arabian woodpecker remains tied to naturally scarce and isolated mountain woodland patches.
How much is known about each species?
The Syrian woodpecker is comparatively well documented thanks to its expanding range and overlap with the widely studied great spotted woodpecker, while the Arabian woodpecker remains one of the more poorly studied woodpeckers in the world.