South-western Arabian Peninsula, in narrow band from just north of Mecca south to western South Yemen.
Population
Estimated population is 2,500 - 9,999 (2010) and decreasing.
Status NT
Habitat destruction through lopping, cutting and wholesale clearance of trees, for charcoal and firewood and for building/agricultural land, is the main threat.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Accelerating, then descending, 'kek-kek-kek-kek-kek-kek' is the most frequently heard call. Variable 'pweek pit-pit-pit-pit-pit-pit-pit' given between members of pair.
Arabian Woodpecker (Dendrocoptes dorae) [XC746135]
by David Darrell-Lambert from \u062a\u0646\u0648\u0645\u0629, Tanomah, Aseer Province, Saudi Arabia (alarm call)
Arabian Woodpecker (Dendrocoptes dorae) [XC650024]
by Frank Lambert from Al Reeth, Al Reeth, Jazan, Saudi Arabia (alarm call)
Subspecies
Genus sometimes merged into Picoides. Relationships unclear and thought most likely to be related to Yellow-crowned Woodpecker (Leiopicus mahrattensis) and the Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos macei) superspecies.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet