Mississippi’s diverse natural landscapes support a rich variety of wildlife. Its forests, wetlands, rivers, and coastal areas provide sanctuary for numerous animal species. This geography fosters vibrant biodiversity across its regions. A wide range of wild animals call Mississippi home, adapting to each habitat’s specific conditions.
Land Mammals
Mississippi’s terrestrial environments host familiar mammals. White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are common across the state, inhabiting woodlands and open fields, often seen grazing. Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are widespread, adapting to rural and suburban settings, known for nocturnal foraging and dexterity. Opossums (Didelphis virginianus), North America’s only marsupial, are prevalent, recognized by their prehensile tails and playing dead when threatened.
Eastern Gray Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are abundant, particularly in forested areas and urban parks, gathering nuts and seeds. They are typically gray with a bushy tail and active during daylight. Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) prefer open areas like grasslands and woodland edges, but also inhabit agricultural and suburban landscapes. Known for reddish-brown fur and a white-tipped tail. Gray Foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) are also present, often in heavily forested and brushy habitats.
Avian Diversity
Mississippi’s location along the Mississippi Flyway contributes to its significant avian diversity. This flyway is utilized by approximately half of North America’s bird species, including waterfowl and shorebirds, during biannual migrations. Resident bird species add to this richness, making the state a birdwatcher’s haven.
Common songbirds, such as the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), are easily recognized by the male’s vibrant red plumage and frequent various habitats. The American Robin (Turdus migratorius) is ubiquitous, found in forests, parks, and suburban areas, often foraging on lawns. Raptors like the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) are common year-round residents, often soaring over open fields or perched on roadside poles, identified by broad wings and a reddish tail in adults. The Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias), a large wading bird, is frequently observed in freshwater habitats, standing still while hunting fish and amphibians.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Mississippi hosts varied reptiles and amphibians, thriving in its warm, humid climate. Among snakes, non-venomous species like the Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus) are common in wooded areas and skilled climbers. Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are widespread and adaptable, often encountered in grassy environments near water sources. Mississippi is home to six venomous snake species, including the Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) and Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). Cottonmouths are primarily found near aquatic environments, known for their defensive display of a white-lined mouth when threatened.
Various turtles inhabit the state’s terrestrial and aquatic systems, such as the Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), often found in slow-moving waters. Lizards, including the Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis), are common, with their ability to change color from green to brown to blend with surroundings. Among amphibians, the American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) is the largest frog species, inhabiting permanent bodies of water like swamps and ponds. Several salamander species also reside here, such as the Mississippi Slimy Salamander (Plethodon mississippi), a terrestrial species found in forested areas under logs or leaf litter.
Aquatic and Invertebrate Species
Mississippi’s extensive waterways, including rivers, lakes, and the Gulf Coast, support a wide array of aquatic life. Freshwater fish, such as the Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides), are popular inhabitants of the state’s lakes and rivers. Catfish are abundant in these freshwater systems, known for their bottom-dwelling habits. Along coastal areas, marine life thrives, including Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) which frequent Gulf waters.
Crabs and shrimp are common crustaceans found in brackish and marine environments along the coast. The American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is a prominent aquatic reptile, found in the state’s wetlands, bayous, and slow-moving rivers. Invertebrates are a significant part of Mississippi’s wildlife, with insects like the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) undertaking impressive migrations through the region. Dragonflies are commonly seen near water bodies, showcasing aerial hunting skills.