Conservation Corner: April 24, 2000

Birds Of Mississippi
by James L. Cummins

In my family, David Watts and Bill Turcotte are almost household names. They are long-time employees of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. My first job in the field of fish and wildlife conservation was at Turcotte Research Laboratory near Canton, Mississippi, named after Mr. Turcotte.

Begun more than 25 years ago, Birds of Mississippi is finally a reality. For many people, the authors included, this work is a long-awaited book that covers the diversity, distribution, conservation and history of the birds of the Magnolia State.

According to the book's co-author, William H. Turcotte, "This work is about birds, people who like to study birds and places where birds are found."

Birds of Mississippi also outlines the state's ornithological history and provides enlightening discussions about many of the interesting persons over the last several hundred years who have added to our knowledge of Mississippi's birds and their habitats.

The new book was written for both the novice and advanced bird watchers. Birds of Mississippi describes 397 species and including illustrations, maps and charts, it will delight the average birder and greatly inform the casual bird watcher.

It contains 74 black-and-white photographs and 24 color photographs. The 394 range maps are helpful in generally describing where and when bird species may be found. This can be helpful in letting birders know where they could expect to find some more difficult-to-locate species such as some warblers, gulls, sparrows, shorebirds and water birds.

Birds of Mississippi contains detailed explanations and guides that describe how to identify a particular species. It details the habits and habitats of each species. It also contains standardized guides that allow birders to record sightings (I can picture my mother already using this part!).

The book also has chapters on "Wildlife Conservation and Management" and "Birds and the Environment." One of my favorite parts is a section on history that covers the state's ornithology. John J. Audubon once said, "I did not meet at Natchez (Mississippi) with many individuals fond of ornithological pursuits, but the hospitality with which I was received was such as I am not likely to forget." Well, Mr. Audubon, things in Mississippi have changed. And the hospitality has improved too! Birds of Mississippi is copublished by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks and the University Press of Mississippi. It is available through local booksellers or you can obtain a copy by contacting the University Press of Mississippi toll-free at 1-800-737-7788.

Congratulations David and Mr. Turcotte. It's about time!

James L. Cummins is Executive Director of the Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Foundation in Stoneville, Mississippi. Known as "Wildlife Mississippi," the Foundation is a non-profit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi.