Most Sought Species at This Site:

Tricolored Heron, Clapper Rail, Yellow Rail, Black-necked Stilt, American Oystercatcher, Wilson’s Plover, Red Knot, Least Tern, Gull-billed Tern, Sandwich Tern, Black Skimmer, Chuck-will’s-widow, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Sedge Wren, Henslow’s Sparrow, Le Conte’s Sparrow, Nelson’s Sparrow, Seaside Sparrow, Painted Bunting

The 18,400 acre Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) is operated by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources in conjunction with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. This site is also recognized by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Over 200 species of birds have been recorded here.  The site consists of a combination of wet pine savannah and tidal salt marsh bordering bayous and shallow water bays. There are also some bayhead swamp, fresh water marsh, saltpans, and maritime forest. Many of these habitats are accessible by hiking trails. One of the best trails would be the Oak Grove Birding Trail. Interesting at any time except the height of summer, it can be spectacular during heavy migratory movements. However, some of the best birding sites of Grand Bay are accessible only by boat so to fully understand and exploit the potential of Grand Bay birding, be certain to obtain a copy of Selected Birds of the National Estuarine Research Reserve and Vicinity.  You will find its wealth of information essential if you plan to explore by private boat and of great value under any circumstances. Finally, be aware that hunting is permitted on parts of the reserve and that other sections may be closed from time to time for research projects. The knowledgeable staff of the on-site Resources Center can advise you about these matters. Also check with them on any guided tours that might be available.