CHAPTER IV: WILDLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,
THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^290LOCATION, SIZE, CONDITION AND CONSERVATION STATUS
EGCP, UEGCP
Substrates of the coastal plain in Mississippi consists almost entirely
unconsolidated sediments. A few geologic formations in the state yield rock
formations. These formations usually outcrop within steep terrain or along
major river valleys and occur in most upland regions of the state. There are
approximately 500 acres of this subtype in Mississippi.
Rock outcrops are sometimes impacted when hill tops are mined for rock and
gravel. Removal of trees in and around rock outcrops will reduce the quality of
this habitat for some amphibians and reptiles.
Rock outcrops are imperiled in the state because of rarity, due to very few known fields. Rock outcrops
are vulnerable to further decline because they are desirable for mining and building sites.
SPECIES OF GREATEST CONSERVATION NEED ASSOCIATED WITH
ROCK OUTCROPS
GROUP SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME TIER
Amphibians Aneides aeneus Green Salamander 2
Plethodon ventralis Southern Zigzag Salamander 2
Plethodon websteri Webster's Salamander 2
Mammals Spilogale putorius Eastern Spotted Skunk 2
THREATS TO ROCK OUTCROP COMMUNITIES
Incompatible Resource Extraction Practices: Historic high
Road Construction/Management high
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 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 Prohibit gravel mining in stream channels, discourage gravel mining in floodplains and improve
oversight and planning for such mines on upland sites.
A Improve environmental review and permit process and oversight and enforcement of existing
regulations in important habitats/populations.
Range of Rock Outcrops