Campephilus principalis, commonly known as the Imperial Woodpecker, is a large, black and white woodpecker with a red crest. It has a wingspan of up to 28 inches and a length of up to 24 inches. It is found in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range in Mexico, where it inhabits pine-oak forests. Its lifespan is unknown, but it is believed to live up to 20 years. The current population of the Imperial Woodpecker is unknown, but it is believed to be critically endangered due to deforestation and hunting.
Name Origin: Campephilus principalis, commonly known as the Imperial Woodpecker, is a species of woodpecker that is native to Mexico. The name of this species is derived from the Greek words "kampē" meaning "vulture" and "philos" meaning "loving". This is likely a reference to the bird's large size and predatory behavior. The species name "principalis" is Latin for "chief" or "principal", likely referring to the bird's impressive size and dominance in its habitat.
Related Species: Melanerpes carolinus, Colaptes auratus, Dryocopus pileatus, Picoides borealis