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Rediscovery of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker
How it all began
On February 11, 2004, the long-feared extinct ivory-billed woodpecker was rediscovered by Gene Sparling of Hot Springs in the Big Woods of eastern Arkansas. To read about the rediscovery and the continuing search effort, visit Rediscovering the Ivory-billed Woodpecker. A U.S. Fish and Wildlife brochure that details the rediscovery is also available for download:Ivory-bill Identification
Although the ivory-billed woodpecker is a large, colorful woodpecker, it can easily be confused with the very similar pileated woodpecker. To aid in identification, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology has produced an excellent website that describes the major features of this endangered species (Identifying and Reporting an Ivory-billed Woodpecker). A downloadable brochure with similar information is also available:Identifying and Reporting an Ivory-billed Woodpecker 
Places to Visit
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, and The Nature Conservancy are working to provide managed access for birders and other visitors.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has designed a website specifically for Big Woods Birding Opportunities. This site details how to prepare for a trip to the Big Woods, places to visit, and accommodations available in the area. The Arkansas Game and Fish also offers information and maps on its ivory-billed woodpecker page.
Important Links
A Beginner's Guide to the Ivory-billed WoodpeckerA brief introduction to ivory-billed woodpecker ecology, history, and rediscovery.
The Big Woods Conservation PartnershipVisit this website to learn more about the partnership among government and private entities working to conserve the ivory-bill and the Big Woods.
Rediscovering the Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThis link will take you to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's website which contains incredible amounts of information on the ivory-bill. Get the latest information on the search effort, learn about the history and ecology of the ivory-bill, and access historical images and sound recordings.
The Nature Conservancy: Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe Nature Conservancy's website contains information about the rediscovery, the ecology of the Big Woods, efforts to restore this ecosystem, and interesting places to visit in the region.
Ivory-billed Woodpecker: Recovery Starts HereA U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site that details efforts to conserve this federally endangered species.
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission: Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe AGFC's webpages regarding the ivory-bill feature information for identifying and reporting sightings, places to visit within the agencies Wildlife Management Area system, and answers to frequently asked questions.
