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CHAPTER IV: WILDLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,

THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^241

Nycticorax violaceus Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron 3
Dendroica discolor Prairie Warbler 3
Hylocichla mustelina Wood Thrush 3
Botaurus lentiginosus American Bittern 3
Ixobrychus exilis Least Bittern 3
Reptiles Malaclemys terrapin pileata Mississippi Diamondback Terrapin 2
Nerodia clarkii clarkii Gulf Salt Marsh Snake 2

THREATS TO BARRIER ISLAND WETLAND COMMUNITIES

Invasive Species high
Altered Fire Regime low
Miscellaneous Threats Described: Marine Litter low
Recreation Activities low

PRIORITY CONSERVATION ACTIONS

A Plan and conduct additional research (i.e. habitat needs, status surveys, breeding status, disease,
etc.) on SGCN.

A Encourage and improve management of habitat by controlled burning at necessary frequencies
and seasons.

A Develop/implement/continue recovery plans for individual SGCN.

A Encourage restoration and improved management of altered/degraded habitat when possible.

A Encourage retention, preservation, and conservation of remaining natural habitat through
purchase, easements or MOAs.

A Control exotic and invasive species (plant and animal).

A Provide public education about conservation of SGCN and/or their habitats.

A Encourage appreciation of SGCN and their habitats by providing public access and compatible
recreational activities.

A Encourage proper disposal and cleanup of waste and litter.

13.4 Mainland Natural Beaches

„ Value to SGCN - 69

„ Rank - 5th of 17 Marine, Estuarine and Estuarine

Fringe Systems

DESCRIPTION

Natural beaches of the mainland are predominantly found

at the mouths of rivers, such as the Pearl and Pascagoula