Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Yazoo County, Mississippi, United States |
| Nearest city | Yazoo City, Mississippi |
| Area | 38,697 acres (156.60 km2) |
| Established | 1978 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge |
The Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a special natural area in Mississippi. It is one of seven refuges that make up the Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex. This important refuge was created in 1978. It covers a huge area of about 38,697 acres (156.6 km²).
A large part of the refuge, about 21,000 acres, is a unique type of forest. This forest is called a bottomland forest. It grows in the low, wet areas near the Mississippi River.
Contents
What is Panther Swamp Refuge?
Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area. It helps keep nature safe for animals and plants. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages this refuge. Their job is to protect wildlife and their homes.
Exploring the Habitats
The refuge has different types of natural areas. These areas are called habitats. They include forests, swamps, and even some reforested lands. There are also agricultural areas.
Forest Types
The higher parts of the refuge are often just a foot above the swampy areas. These higher spots have trees like Nuttall's oak, willow, and Water oak. In the areas between the swamp and the higher ground, you can find Overcup oak, bitter pecan, and ash trees.
A Home for Wildlife
Panther Swamp Refuge is a very important place for many animals. It provides safe places for them to rest, eat, and live.
Birds and Waterfowl
Every year, over 100,000 waterfowl visit the refuge in winter. These are birds like ducks and geese. The refuge also provides a home for about 200 different kinds of neotropical migratory songbirds. These birds travel long distances each year.
Other Animals
Many other animals live in the woodlands, swamps, and reforested parts of the refuge. You might spot an American alligator or a White-tailed deer. Other residents include otters, swamp rabbits, wild turkeys, and squirrels. Smaller furry animals like mink and raccoons also make their homes here.
