One of the largest woodpeckers in the world, 20 inches (51 cm) long and 30 inches (76 cm) in wingspan, hunting and habitat destruction brought the Ivory Billed Woodpecker to extinction in the 1940s. Over the last 80 years, there have been controversial sightings in the deep Louisiana swamps. Probably extinct since 2004 but the occasional  sightings prompt some hope. Native to Southeastern US and Southern Midwest and Cuba. Known as Audubon’s favorite bird, the Ivory Billed Woodpecker has achieved a near-mythic status among birdwatchers.

Largest known woodpecker. 20 inches (51 cm) long and 30 inches (76 cm) in wingspan.Threats: habitat destruction

Did you know: There are only 20 – 24 Ivory Billed Woodpeckers but this is an improvement over being extinct! They are located in a remote area of Arkansas and the location has been kept secret in order to protect the few remaining birds.