Game Animals

Deer

One of the most plentiful game species in Mississippi is the white-tailed deer. It can be found in a variety of habitats. Overpopulation of this species can cause an increase in car accidents and damage to forests and agricultural fields

Dove

Although the mourning dove is a migratory bird, many doves stay in Mississippi year-round. This popular game bird requires open ground and fields for gathering food and trees and shrubs for roosting and nesting.

Ducks

Hunting regulations and habitat management have saved wood ducks from becoming extinct in Mississippi. They are one of three waterfowl species that nest annually in the state.

Rabbit

The Eastern cottontail rabbit is can be found in open grassy fields and dense growth along fields and woodland edges. Its habitat has been reduced due to industrialized farming, loss of native plants, and the introduction of invasive species.

Squirrels

In Mississippi, there are two types of squirrels: the gray squirrel and the fox squirrel. Both are very common and live in trees in urban, suburban, forest, and park environments. They eat a variety of foods including nuts, fungi, and plants.

Turkey

The Eastern wild turkey requires a variety of habitats to thrive including open lands and forested areas. Foods include seeds, fruits, insects, and plants. Ample cover is required to improve chances of survival and nesting success.

Quail

The Northern Bobwhite Quail is an upland game bird. Populations have declined due to habitat loss from industrialized agriculture and forestry, loss of native plants, and the introduction of invasive species.