Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, National wildlife refuge in Gautier, Mississippi.
The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge spans 19,000 acres divided into four separate sections, composed mainly of wetlands and open pine forest. These areas were created specifically to protect the rare Mississippi sandhill cranes and maintain the habitat that these birds require for survival.
The refuge was created in 1975 when just 30 Mississippi sandhill cranes remained in the region. Establishing this protected area helped the population gradually increase and prevented the species from disappearing entirely.
The place shows how wetlands support endangered species, and visitors experience the direct link between habitat and bird survival through exhibits and programs. The educational center explains why these cranes need specific wetland conditions and how the pine savanna ecosystem functions.
Access is through a trail system near the visitor center, where you can get information before exploring. Guided bird-watching tours are offered during specific months, so it helps to check ahead for tour times and availability.
The refuge contains one of North America's largest remaining wet pine savannas, notable for its dense diversity of plant life in a small area. Within just one square meter, around 30 different plant species can be found, highlighting the ecological richness of this landscape.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
