Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
Restricted to the lowlands of the Andaman Islands, this species is considered to have a small population size, which is likely to be declining as a result of habitat loss and degradation. Therefore, the species is now listed as Vulnerable, though further information regarding population size and structure could mean that the species's status warrants re-assessment in the future.
Population justification
This species has been described as common, and uncommon, but it may in fact number fewer than 1,000 mature individuals (P. Davidar in litt. 2016). Given it does appear to continue to be well reported (see eBird 2017) it is proposed that a population size estimate in the range of 1,000-2,500 mature individuals may be most appropriate, with <1,000 mature individuals in the largest subpopulation
Trend justification
Trend data are lacking, but this species apparently remains common and widespread. It is likely to have declined to some degree as a result of habitat loss.
Dryocopus hodgei is an endemic resident to the Andaman Islands, India (BirdLife International 2001).
This species occurs in evergreen and semi-evergreen forest, as well as in open areas with sparse patches of taller trees. It occurs mainly in the lowlands.
Although forest remains fairly extensive on the Andamans, the human population on larger islands is rising rapidly and habitat is consequently under pressure from agriculture, grazing and logging; and natural disasters may have an impact upon the species's habitat (P. Davidar in litt. 2016).
Conservation Actions Underway
No targeted conservation actions are known for this species. The Department of Environment and Forests, Andaman & Nicobar Islands has initiated steps to conserve the endemic and threatened bird species of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Zoological Survey of India is monitoring the bird population of this archipelago (C. Sivaperuman in litt. 2016).
Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct repeated surveys across the species's range to determine the magnitude of declines, rates of range contraction and habitat trends. Conduct ecological studies to determine precise habitat requirements, tolerance of secondary habitats and response to fragmentation. Protect areas of suitable habitat.
Text account compilers
Gilroy, J., Benstead, P., Taylor, J., Westrip, J.
Contributors
Sivaperuman, C., Praveen, J., Davidar, P.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Andaman Woodpecker Dryocopus hodgei. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/andaman-woodpecker-dryocopus-hodgei on 23/11/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 23/11/2024.