Mississippi’s landscape is gorgeous and the wildlife that live here are just as amazing. From everyday critters to endangered species, the state is home to wide variety of animals and, as such, Mississippi has numerous wildlife refuges in addition to a conservation plan that will ensure the state stays home to this array of wildlife.

 

1. Alligator
Scott Lipsey/Flickr
This "future monster gator in training" (as the photographer called it) was shot at the Noxubee Wildlife Refuge near Brooksville.
2. Barred Owl
Scott/Lipsey
This type of owl can be found all over the U.S. as well as Canada and Mexico.
3. Cattle Egret
Roger Smith/Flickr
This young egret just hatched - welcome to the world!
4. Black Bear
Mississippi Wildlife
While these bears were classified as endangered in 1984, the population has been increasing and there is now believed to be about 120 in the state.
5. Bobcat
MSU
This versatile animal can live in a variety of habitats ranging from deserts to swamps.
6. Deer
MS Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries
While it is pretty well-known that Mississippi is home to numerous deer, many are unaware that they are also the state mammal.
7. Fox Squirrel
Jimmy Smith/Flickr
This is the most common type of tree squirrel in North America.

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8. Gray Fox
Scott Lipsey/Flickr
This beautiful gray fox was photographed near Starkville.
9. Mississippi Kite
Bruce Reid/Wildlife Mississippi
Flying high, this is much more beautiful than any kite that could be purchased!
10. Mockingbird
Mark Blasingame/Flickr
While many know that the mockingbird mimics songs, many are unaware that it is the state bird of Mississippi.
11. Opossum
Brian Norwood/Flickr
If you live in Mississippi then you've definitely seen one of these.
12. Tree Frogs
Roger Smith/Flickr
These brightly colored tree frogs were photographed at the Noxubee Wildlife Refuge.
13. Broad-Banded Water Snake
Tom Spinker/Flickr
Photographed at the Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge, these snakes are often mistaken for cottonmouths.
14. Wood Duck
Mississippi.Gov
Since 1974, the wood duck has been the official state waterfowl.
15. Red-Cockaded Woodpecker
Noxubee Wildlife Refuge
Smaller than most species, this woodpecker can be found in the southeastern United States.

Whether you’re visiting a wildlife refuge or just taking a stroll around your yard, seeing wildlife in Mississippi is pretty much a given. Of all the wildlife you’ve seen in the state, what do you find most beautiful?

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