Mississippi, a state known for its alluring blend of rich history, southern charm, and lush, natural landscapes, also boasts a remarkable diversity of water birds that is bound to fascinate bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its wetlands, rivers, and coastal areas offer an enticing haven for numerous bird species, some of which are unique to this region.
Mississippi water birds
| Species | Frequency | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Common | Mississippi River, Ross Barnett Reservoir |
| Brown Pelican | Uncommon | Mississippi Sound, Gulf Coast |
| Double-Crested Cormorant | Very Common | Statewide, especially in aquatic habitats |
| Great Blue Heron | Very Common | Statewide in wetland areas |
| Great Egret | Common | Statewide in marshy areas |
| Snowy Egret | Common | Coastal areas, Mississippi River |
| Green Heron | Common | Statewide in wetland areas |
| Little Blue Heron | Common | Coastal areas, Mississippi River |
| Tricolored Heron | Uncommon | Coastal areas |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Common | Wetland areas statewide |
| Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron | Uncommon | Coastal areas, Delta Region |
| Mallard | Very Common | Statewide in all types of wetlands |
| Wood Duck | Very Common | Statewide in forested wetlands |
| Blue-Winged Teal | Common | Wetland areas statewide |
| Northern Pintail | Common | Wetlands statewide, especially northern |
| Redhead | Common | Larger lakes and rivers |
| Ring-Necked Duck | Common | Statewide, especially in aquatic habitats |
| Bufflehead | Common | Lakes and ponds statewide |
| Hooded Merganser | Common | Forested wetlands statewide |
| Common Merganser | Uncommon | Larger lakes and rivers, particularly north |
| American Coot | Common | Lakes and wetlands statewide |
| Sandhill Crane | Common | Along Mississippi River, Delta region |
| American Wigeon | Common | Wetlands statewide, especially northern |
| White Ibis | Common | Coastal marshes, Delta region |
Water Bird Species Found in Mississippi
Where to Spot Mississippi’s Water Birds
Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, Jackson County: This refuge with its dense vegetation and freshwater marshes provides critical habitat to the Mississippi Sandhill Crane and over 200 species of bird incuding cattle egrets and least bitterns (known for their yellow bill), making it one of the premier bird-watching spots in the state.
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, Noxubee/Oktibbeha/Winston Counties: It is a sanctuary for migratory birds and waterfowl with large reservoirs and wetlands that attract numerous water bird species, such as the American Coot, Pied-Billed Grebe, and a variety of ducks.
Gulf Islands National Seashore, Harrison/Jackson Counties: With its coastal location, this area is a hot spot for bird-watching. Expect to see coastal species like Black Skimmers, Least Terns, and various species of herons and egrets.
Delta National Forest, Sharkey County: Its swamps and waterways are excellent for spotting a variety of water birds like Wood Ducks, Great Blue Herons, and various species of egrets.
St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge, Adams County: A haven for migratory waterfowl, this area also attracts other water birds like American Bitterns, Least Bitterns, and Prothonotary Warblers.
| Neighboring State | Best Spots for Birdwatching |
|---|---|
| Tennessee Water Birds | Reelfoot Lake State Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Radnor Lake State Park |
| Alabama Water Birds | Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Dauphin Island |
| Arkansas Water Birds | Arkansas Post National Memorial, Mammoth Spring State Park, Millwood State Park |
| Louisiana Water Birds | Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Martin |