CHAPTER IV: WILDLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,

THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^289

R ock outcrops and caves are localized features of the landscape, which do not fit within other habitat

categories, but need to be included in the classification to insure representation. These unique landscape

features provide habitat for certain animals.

This type includes two subtypes: 17.1 Rock Outcrops and 17.2 Caves.

GENERAL CONDITION

There is currently no conservation protection for rock outcrops or caves in Mississippi. Many of these

are on private lands and funding for protection (i.e.- gating of caves, security from public intrusion) is

limited. As a result, human disturbances such as noise, vandalism, and fires in caves are common place

and detrimental to the species residing there. Natural disturbances, such as cave-ins are also damaging to

species reliant on this habitat type. Knowledge regarding the condition of caves and rock outcrops is

hindered due to a lack of monitoring and communication with private land holders.

17.1 Rock Outcrops

„ Value to SGCN - 12

„ Rank - 26th of 29 of Inland Terrestrial Complexes

(Terrestrial, Wetland, Subterranean and Anthropogenic)

DESCRIPTION

The soil mantle of the gulf coastal plain is derived largely from

sedimentary strata deposition when the state was submerged

under a great sea. Most of the landscape supports deep soils that developed from these sedimentary

materials. Few sandstone and limestone rock layers exist near the ground surface and only rarely do

they outcrop. They mainly occur along steep hill slopes, ravines or river channels where soils have

eroded away. Some of the regions containing rock outcrops include the Tennessee River hills, Jackson

prairie and loess bluffs. Although of minor extent, the rock outcrops provide quality habitat for several

species of animals. Chalk outcrops are commonly found in the blackbelt prairie, but they are not known

to have any special significance as habitat for animals.

17. ROCK OUTCROPS AND CAVES