Syrian Woodpecker

The Syrian woodpecker (Dendrocopos syriacus) is a bird of striking plumage, belonging to the family Picidae. It measures approximately 23 cm in length, with the male showcasing glossy black upper parts, a distinctive crimson nape spot, and white markings on the forehead, face, and neck. A prominent white patch adorns the shoulder, while the flight feathers bear white spots that create three wingbars. The underparts are a buffish white, with the abdomen and under tail coverts tinged in reddish hues. The female is similar but lacks the crimson nape spot, and juveniles feature a crimson crown instead.

Identification Tips

To distinguish the Syrian woodpecker from its relatives, note its longer bill, more extensive white on the head, and absence of white tail barring, which sets it apart from the great spotted woodpecker. The crimson on the abdomen and white shoulder patches differentiate it from the lesser spotted woodpecker.

Habitat

This species is found in open woodlands, areas of cultivation with trees and shrubs, and parks, where old trees provide essential food and nesting sites.

Distribution

The Syrian woodpecker is a resident breeder from southeastern Europe to Iran, with its range recently expanding northwest into Europe.

Behaviour

Often inconspicuous despite its plumage, the Syrian woodpecker is known for its jerky movements and ability to hop or assume various positions, including upside-down, while foraging for food. It is adept at crossing spaces with an easy, undulating flight.

Song & Calls

The bird's presence is often betrayed by its mechanical drumming—a vibrating rattle produced by rapid bill strikes on wood. This drumming is longer and decreases in volume compared to that of the great spotted woodpecker. Its call is a soft, sharp "quit, quit," reminiscent of the common redshank.

Breeding

Breeding involves creating a neat, round nesting hole in soft or decaying wood. The chamber at the bottom houses up to 11 creamy white eggs laid on wood chips. The young congregate at the hole's entrance, chattering continuously, but retreat when alarmed.

Similar Species

The Syrian woodpecker can be confused with the great spotted woodpecker but can be differentiated by its longer bill, more white on the head, and lack of white tail barring.

Diet and Feeding

Its diet consists mainly of insects that bore into timber, such as larvae of moths and beetles, and occasionally bees like Xylocopa pubescens. It also consumes seeds, nuts, and berries when insects are scarce. The woodpecker is known to damage polyethylene irrigation pipes in search of water or prey.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Syrian woodpecker as Least Concern, indicating that it is not currently at significant risk of extinction.