15. Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis)
The striking ivory-billed woodpecker once thrived in the old-growth forests of the southeastern United States and Cuba. As one of North America’s largest woodpeckers, it fell victim to widespread habitat loss and hunting, with the last confirmed sightings in the mid-20th century. Despite being presumed extinct, occasional unverified reports keep hope alive for its rediscovery, fueling intrigue and efforts to protect remaining forest habitats.
