Correct spelling for the English word "Campephilus Principalis" is [kˈampɪfˌɪləs pɹˌɪnsɪpˈɑːliz], [kˈampɪfˌɪləs pɹˌɪnsɪpˈɑːliz], [k_ˈa_m_p_ɪ_f_ˌɪ_l_ə_s p_ɹ_ˌɪ_n_s_ɪ_p_ˈɑː_l_i_z] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Campephilus Principalis, commonly known as the "Ivory-billed Woodpecker," is a large North American woodpecker species belonging to the Bucerotiformes order, Picidae family, and Campephilus genus.
The Ivory-billed Woodpecker is recognized for its remarkable size, measuring around 48 to 53 centimeters in length, making it one of the largest woodpeckers in the world. It possesses a wingspan of roughly 76-81 centimeters, featuring prominent white patches on its wings and back. The male is typically distinguished by a prominent red crest on its head, while females exhibit a black crest. Both genders showcase a long, strong bill that is curved and ivory-colored, contributing to its common name.
Historically, this species inhabited the southeastern region of the United States, particularly in bottomland forests and old-growth swamps, where it relied on large dead trees to forage and nest. It predominantly fed on insect larvae, beetles, and ants, using its strong bill to chisel away bark and excavate deep cavities.
Unfortunately, the Ivory-billed Woodpecker is considered critically endangered and potentially extinct, with its last confirmed sighting in the United States dating back to the 1940s. Despite extensive search efforts, including ongoing investigations and surveys, no conclusive evidence of its existence has been found in recent years.
The preservation and potential reintroduction of this magnificent bird are subjects of tremendous conservation interest, garnering scientific research, habitat restoration initiatives, and conservation awareness to protect the well-being and possible recovery of the species.
The word "Campephilus principalis" has a Latin etymology.
The term "Campephilus" is derived from the combination of two Latin words: "campus" meaning "field" or "plain", and "philus" meaning "loving" or "adoring". Therefore, "Campephilus" can be translated as "loving the field" or "fond of open spaces".
The word "principalis" is also derived from Latin, where "princeps" means "first" or "chief". "Principalis" can be translated as "of chief importance" or "of primary significance".
So, put together, "Campephilus principalis" could be interpreted as "a woodpecker (genus Campephilus) that loves open spaces (campo) and is of primary importance (principalis)".