OUT-OF-DOORS: The Pileated Woodpecker

The ivory-billed woodpecker, a southern cousin of our distinctive pileated woodpecker, is believed by many to be extinct. But is it? There have been sightings, most recently in the woods and swamps of Arkansas. Wildlife biologists, conservationists, birders—everybody seems to want to take part in the search for this elusive, reclusive, and haunting bird.

Do a little research and see what you think. Is the ivory-billed woodpecker extinct or just very, very shy? Here are a few websites to get your sleuthing started:

Big Woods Conservation Partnership
www.ivorybill.org

Cornell Lab of Ornithology
www.birds.cornell.edu

The Ivory Bill Woodpecker
www.ulala.org