Table of Contents

COVER Current Traveling Exhibits Pg 2 Director’s Letter New Staff

Pg 3 Special Events

Pg 4 Permanent Exhibits

Pg 5 Research & Collections

Pg 6/7 Lost in the Amazon, The Amazon rainforest is the Calendar world’s largest continuous tropical rainfor- Teacher an exhibit featuring est, comprising more than one-half of all the Resources Preschool the work of renowned remaining rainforest area on earth. It is also home to the world’s largest collection of living Pg 8 wildlife photographer plant and animal species. These plants and Education animals are in danger, however, since more & Research Stephen Kirkpatrick, than 27 million acres of tropical rainforest Notes habitat disappear each year. At this rate, all opens at the Museum rainforests could disappear within 50 years. Pg 9 February 4, 2006. This exhibit affords the viewer an Trail & intimate look at one man’s personal experienc- he 40 color photographs on display Aquarium es in one of the world’s rarest, most important, News all appear in Kirkpatrick’s award- and most endangered habitats. T winning book, Romancing the Rain. Shot over nine years in the jungles of the “The Amazon Pg 10 Peruvian Amazon, they feature brilliant is the most challenging place Patrons tropical birds, colorful poison dart frogs, I’ve ever worked.” Sponsors Volunteers venomous snakes, playful monkeys, exotic —Stephen Kirkpatrick— mammals, vibrant jungle flowers, breath- An opening reception at 6:00pm on taking rainforest landscapes, and panoramic Friday, February 3 will include a book signing Pg 11 shots of the mighty Amazon River. Foundation and a multimedia presentation by Kirkpatrick Information “The Amazon is the most challeng- in the Museum’s Rotwein Dragonfly ing place I’ve ever worked,” Kirkpatrick says. Theater. The exhibit opens to Shoppe “I’ve tried to capture not only the flora and the general public on Satur- fauna of the rainforest, but also a sense of the day, February 4, and will run THE NATURAL NEWSLINE incredible adventure found there.” through May. IS SPONSORED IN PART BY THE JACKSON CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU Vol. 24 • No. 1 • Winter 2006

MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES, AND PARKS Winter 2006 1 HOME PAGE SPECIAL EVENTS

New Staff from 10:10 to 11:10am; and Quick Calendar and research area. Meet the Got the crappie session from scientists and learn about International 11:20am to 12:30pm will some of the unique tools they FISH? conclude the seminars. GOT FISH? use in their research. Take a Migratory The scope and content of & tour of the Museum Collec- Do you each seminar will be guided Something’s Fishy tions area and discover how Bird Day by questions from the audi- SAT • FEB 4 these valuable specimens are like to fish? ence. Our panel of experts collected and maintained. 9:00a m to 3:00p m Celebrate Whether you will share knowledge not only about specific fish spe- Nature FEST the incredible Angel Rohnke are a serious cies, but also about success- MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF After almost six years using the familiar, oversized design for The Natural Angel Rohnke has joined the Museum SAT • APR 8 journeys of WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS ful techniques, favorite lures, NEWSLINE, we decided that a new look was needed. Discussions with several Museum staff as a naturalist in our education angler or a a m p m and even those much coveted 10:00 to 3:00 migratory birds. Sam Polles, Ph.D. members produced excellent suggestions regarding the size, shape, and organization of department. Angel comes to us from Executive Director novice, fishing spots. oin the Museum and Al Tuck Robert Cook information. Of course, I was also interested in a design that was more economical Cranberry Lake Biological Station in Deputy Director Executive Officer International Partners in Flight as to produce. Got FISH? Commissioners the Adirondack Mountains where she Something’s Fishy Migratory Bird Day they host International Roy Lee Noble, Jr. William C. Deviney, Jr. I believe the new design will help readers take even greater advantage of the served as Business Manager. Previously J SAT • MAY 13 Chairman Vice Chairman has a seminar From noon to 3:00pm Botanists and volunteers Migratory Bird Day on Sat- Museum’s services. I hope you enjoy the new NEWSLINE, and I welcome your comments she worked as a Park Guide/Interpreter Bryan Jones children and families can 10:00a m to 3:00p m will conduct guided tours of urday, May 13, from 10:00am Webb Lee on the content and new format. at the Women’s Rights National for you. enjoy Something’s Fishy. the nature trails. The Native to 3:00pm. John C. Stanley IV With the hurricane debris finally cleaned up, the Museum staff is now Historical Park and in various capaci- Activities include interactive Plant Gardens will be in full Bird watching, nature involved in assessing the long range environmental changes resulting from Katrina. ties in Fisheries & Education for the MUSEUM STAFF fish feedings and behind- bloom, offering a spectacular hikes, and lots of hands-on We extend our deepest sympathy to all our friends on the Gulf Coast as they rebuild their New York State Department of Environ- Libby Hartfield the-scenes tours of the display of native plants in activities will encourage Museum Director lives and their institutions. mental Conservation. Educated at the Adrianne Clark Norton McKeigney aquariums. their springtime glory. conservation and increase Database Technician Exhibits Supervisor As I turn my attention to next summer’s exhibit, I think Giant Insects will SUNY College of Environmental Science our awareness of birds. John DeFillipo Stephanie be every bit as exciting as A T.Rex Named Sue was last summer. Individuals or corpora- Outreach Naturalist Hawes Monistere and Forestry in Syracuse, NY, Angel Did you know the Museum’s Karen Dierolf Aquatic Biologist tions who want to help support this exhibit should let me know soon. We will also need holds a B.S. in Environmental Forest n Saturday, February 4, Aquatic Biologist Nature grounds and nature trails Meredith lots of great volunteers for both Lost in the Amazon this spring and for Giant Insects in Bobby Cleveland, Mark Dugo Montgomery Biology and a Master of Professional offer stopover spots needed Ichthyologist Laboratory Technician the summer. Studies in Environmental Interpretation. Outdoors Editor for Joan Elder Scott Peyton O FEST by migratory birds during Preschool Coordinator Collections Manager You will find new signs in The Clarion-Ledger, will their long flights? Bryan Fedrick George Phillips our Native Plant Garden to help you host three panel discussions Laboratory Assistant Paleontology Curator Join us on May 13 to Harold Garner Angel Rohnke identify individual plants and discover with some of Mississippi’s The Museum Facilities Maintenance Naturalist welcome our feathered Manager Richard Rummel the interdependency between different finest crappie, bass, bream, opens its indoor Connie Gore Wildlife Specialist travelers! Gift Shop Manager plant species. We hope this information and catfish anglers. The bass Alison Sherman and outdoor Rebecca Gruneberg Field Biologist / will give visitors a better understanding seminar will take place from Special Projects Database Specialist Coordinator Got FISH? has something The latest in outdoor Todd Slack, Ph.D. of how native plants can be used in an 9:00 to 10:00am; the catfish/ spaces for a Shirley Hall Ichthyologist for everyone. Mark your recreational supplies and Custodial Supervisor urban environment. bream seminar will follow Nicole Smith Nicole Smith calendar for February 4! equipment will be on display Yolanda Hawkins Naturalist Once again, I hope you enjoy celebration Education Assistant Nicole Smith is going wild—Project Georgia Spencer the new design of NEWSLINE, and I look by various vendors. Buffalo Paula Jarrell Education Coordinator WILD to be exact. As a new naturalist of nature. Gift shop assistant Peak will join us again this Mike Stegall forward to seeing you soon as we all get Charles Jeffcoat Aquarist on staff, Nicole will work to connect he 6th annual Nature Custodian year with kayak demonstra- Mary Stevens Lost in the Amazon! people with nature through direct FEST will commence Brandy Jenkins Librarian tions. Administrative involvement with the Project WILD Saturday, April 8 at Assistant Heather Sullivan In connection with the Botanist T Mary Jenkins curricula and innovative museum 10:00am, featuring activities AdministratiON Ray Terry Lost in the Amazon Coordinator Exhibits Supervisor programming. Before coming to the for the entire family. photography exhibit, R.L. Jones, Ph.D. LaToya Turner Museum, Nicole lead environmen- Come meet the “Snake Herpetologist Laboratory Assistant Libby Hartfield renowned wildlife photog- Isabel Kelly Andrew Whitehurst Museum Director tal education programs at Ruffner Man,” Terry Vandeventer, Preschool Educator Scenic Streams / rapher Stephen Kirkpatrick Natural Areas Mountain Nature Center and the enjoy a birds of prey dem- Charles Knight Coordinator Research Coordinator will conduct a multimedia Nicholas Winstead after-school program at The McWane onstration with Pat Lor- Jennifer Livingston ORNITHOLOGIST presentation and sign copies Education Assistant Center in Birmingham, AL. Nicole holds rance, see fish feedings with Corey Wright of his awarding-winning Terry Majure Naturalist Aquarium Coordinator a B.S. degree from Auburn University divers, and watch live animal Brad Young coffee table book Tom Mann Black Bear Biologist in Anthropology/Geology and has more presentations by the Museum Biologist Romancing the Rain. than five years experience in education staff. Joe McGee See you at the Museum for Outreach Naturalist environmental education. Back by popular demand Nature FEST on April 8! is the behind-the-scenes look MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE • 2148 Riverside Drive • Jackson, MS 39202-1353 • 601.354.7303 • WWW.MDWFP.COM/MUSEUM at our scientific collections

2 Winter 2006 MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE Winter 2006 3 PERMANENT EXHIBITS RESEARCH / COLLECTIONS

From Idea to Diorama (Re)collecting Fannye Cook

collected and prepared for shipment to an exhib- Though unseen by most Between 1936 and 1941, thousands “In collecting specimens its fabrication firm. Exhibit specialists then color of specimens of birds, mammals, fishes, throughout the state, I have matched and dismantled the plants, made molds visitors to the Mississippi amphibians, reptiles, mollusks, and of individual leaves and petals, then assembled and Museum of Natural Science, other life forms were collected, cata- run into many interesting painted the molded plants and flowers, readying the biological research logued, and curated. This work became situations and have had many them for installation. the basis for a number of Cook’s scientific thrilling experiences. Wading through Animal specimens were carefully chosen collections provide the publications such as Freshwater Fishes from the Museum’s collections and prepared for of Mississippi and Snakes of Missis- acres of swamp water infested specific dioramas. Prior knowledge of each animal’s foundation upon which much sippi. Cook’s own work was said with alligators and cottonmouth eventual placement in the diorama was important so of our knowledge of animals, to rival that of the United States moccasins to reach heronries that each specimen could be mounted in a realistic Biological Survey. The Survey manner. Taxidermy preparation was often a chal- plants, and fossils is based. had previously conducted in which not only herons but lenge because of the size and type of specimens. extensive research on flora and Louisiana water turkeys, A collaborative team of staff members from After three years of planning and two years of con- s the official repository for specimens fauna throughout the United bitterns, rails, gallinules, A museum’s permanent Museum research, education, and administration struction, the dioramas were finished and ready for collected during scientific studies and faunal States, utilizing Cook as a exhibits are its backbone. undertook the considerable task of public interpreta- public viewing. But that’s not the end of the story. A surveys in the state, these collections house consultant for species identi- grebes and other They announce the museum’s tion of the dioramas. With so much that could be The dioramas require a consistent schedule of pest over 700,000 specimens, making it the largest single fications. water-loving species shared about the components of each habitat, the control as well as daily checks for lighting needs, reference for Mississippi vertebrate animals and We owe an incalcu- were photographed or mission and give substance interpretative team was charged with determining routine cleaning, and general upkeep. freshwater mussels in existence. lable debt to Fannye Cook the most important information and reducing it When one considers all that went into mak- Most of these collections have their who 70 years ago had the collected, gives rise to to its public message. to a concise, easily understood statement for each ing the Museum’s dioramas, it is clear why they are origins in the mid-1930’s when Fan- foresight and determination emotions of fear and diorama. considered permanent exhibits. Our dioramas repre- to document the flora and en of the permanent dioramas at the nye Cook, the museum’s first direc- exhilaration not sent a sizeable investment of both time and money. fauna of our state. Most Mississippi Museum of Natural Science depict tor, sought to document the flora Preserving that investment is crucial. of the specimens collected produced by any other particular habitats unique to Mississippi. and fauna of Mississippi through a T Individual dioramas will be explored in statewide Plant and Animal Survey. by Cook and her colleagues experience.” They were designed to visually reflect the Museum’s more detail in upcoming issues of Natural Newsline. remain carefully preserved mission: to promote understanding and apprecia- Drawing on skills acquired as a museum worker at the Smithsonian in our collections and are Fannye Cook tion of Mississippi’s biological diversity through First Director Institution and backed by federal funding from the used today by Museum staff Mississippi Museum of Natural Science collections, research, scientific databases, education, and other researchers. The and exhibits; and to inspire the people of our state Works Progress Administration, Cook established 18 (Photo circa 1930) satellite museums around the state and trained field administration of the Mis- to respect the environment and to preserve natural sissippi Museum of Natural Next time you’re in the Museum, Mississippi. collectors in the methods of collecting and preparing The white-tailed museum specimens. Science made a commitment visit Ms. Cook’s office. The Museum staff spent more than three deer diorama years ago not only to safeguard It’s just as she left it—now preserved years planning, researching, designing, and oversee- freestands in the these historic collections, but also to as a permanent exhibit. ing production of these dioramas. Why was so much Finally, all the individual details of the Museum lobby for a The Museum’s continue to build upon our biologi- time required to put together a few nature scenes? diorama were assembled and an appropriate frame- full 360° viewing. collections house cal collections as a resource of im- Deciding which of the state’s many diverse habitats work was established for each specific habitat. The over 700,000 mense value to present and future should be represented required considerable research exhibits staff, working in cooperation with a profes- specimens, scientists. and consultation. The Museum’s scientific, educa- making it the sional exhibit firm and the Museum’s research and In upcoming issues of tion, and exhibit staff worked together to ensure that largest single education staff, set about the exciting and painstak- Natural Newsline, we will examine each diorama contained correct biological infor- reference for ing task of creating spectacularly realistic repre- the individual collections in more mation, an appropriate educational message, and Mississippi sentations of nature in a confined area. During this detail and see how they are used by dramatic visual interest. vertebrate animals phase, every decision — from the placement of each our Conservation Biology research Site visits were made to actual areas and freshwater individual specimen to the perfect lighting of each mussels in staff and others. depicted in the dioramas, volumes and volumes of detail — was crucial to the finished design. existence. photographs were taken, and plant specimens were

4 Winter 2006 MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE Winter 2006 5 CALENDAR CALENDAR

JAN 7 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m FEB 11 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m National Park. Scientists APR 22 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m Ongoing Creature Feature Creature Feature suspect that transmission Creature Feature Preschool You never know This one you’ll never forget! of human diseases to apes You never know what you’ll find... is a major threat to what we’ll bring! The Museum’s hands-on Preschool First Tuesdays FEB 18 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m species survival. To help Naturalist Lecture Series JAN 14 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m Creature Feature protect them, researchers APR 29 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m Discovery FEB 4 • SAT • 9a m - 3 p m • EVENT On the first Tuesday of each Creature Feature It’s a jungle out there! are using electronic track- Creature Feature month, the Museum offers Got Fish? ing systems to determine Room All learning should be Bobby Cleveland, Outdoors What can this creature is designed specifically for lectures addressing a variety of when and where the gorillas MAY 13 • SAT • 10a m - 3p m • EVENT pre-kindergartners, ages 3-5. such fun! Editor for The Clarion-Ledger, FEB 25 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m teach us? natural science subjects. Unless Creature Feature make contact with humans International noted otherwise, the lectures will moderate three fishing and domestic animals. MSU Migratory Bird Day JAN 21 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m seminars for seasoned anglers Think you’ve seen it all? APR 4 • TUE • n o o n -1 p m • LECTURE APR 8 • SAT • 10a m -3p m • FESTIVAL take place from noon to 1:00 p m Creature Feature research efforts are focused Join in activities to support in the Museum’s Rotwein Theater. as well as beginning fisher- on collecting and analyz- Mitch, Katrina, and Nature FEST conservation and increase our Here’s something Bring the family for a fun men. Other activities include MAR 1 • WED ing information to develop the Human Geography awareness of migratory birds. Lectures are free to Museum you didn’t know... Something’s Fishy, with fish Camp WILD Registration of Hurricanes celebration of nature! Foundation members. Please a web-based health/disease (see page 3) feedings by live divers and a Registration for the June SPEAKER: Mark Bonta, Ph.D. Activities include programs show your membership card monitoring system that will JAN 28 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m behind-the-scenes look at the camp opens to the general Assistant Professor of Geography, Division of about snakes and birds of ensure the long-term survival Social Sciences, Delta State University at the gate. Regular Museum Creature Feature public through March 28. prey, fish feedings, a behind- MAY 20 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m Museum aquariums. of the species. Hurricanes Mitch (1998) Creature Feature fee:$5.00 for adults; $4.00 Can you guess what it will be? (see page 3) the-scenes look at Museum for senior citizens; $3.00 for and Katrina (2005) were the Enter this creature’s world... VISITOR ACCESS MAR 4 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m research, guided nature walks children; $2.00 for students with MAR 11 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m most devastating New World ALL AGES FEB 1 • WED n o o n p m Creature Feature and many other outdoor teachers. Members also receive a FEB 7 • TUE • -1 • LECTURE Creature Feature hurricanes in recent history. Camp WILD Registration Ice Age Fossil Hunting: Lower Meet a new critter! activities. (see page 3) MAY 27 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m MON-FRI 1:00-4:00p m ten percent discount at Now this is really something... These two “super storms” SAT 9:30a m -NOON & 1:00-4:00p m Registration for the June Mississippi River Gravel Bars Creature Feature The Dragonfly Shoppe. underscored modern human- Up close and personal! SUN 1:00-4:00p m camp opens for Foundation SPEAKER: Lonnie Looper ity’s woeful lack of adaptation MAR 15 • WED MAY 2 • TUE • n o o n -1 p m • LECTURE TIME FOR TWOS Creature Features Members only (Registration Antiquities Replicator, Greenville, MS to the forces of nature. What, (AGES 2 & UNDER) Lonnie and his wife Freida Junior Duck Stamp The Early History MAY 28 • SUN • TRAVELING EXHIBIT These informal programs opens for general public March 1.) if anything, have we learned 2nd TUE 1:00-4:00p m have collected hundreds of Art Competition of the Natchez Trace Lost In The Amazon —scheduled or spontaneous— Entries due today. from these experiences? STORY TIME 10,000- to 7,000-year old Ice SPEAKER: Prentiss G. Cox, Ph.D. Exhibit Closes (AGES 3 TO 5) feature live or mounted animals. FEB 3 • FRI • 6p m • EXHIBIT PREMIERE Dr. Bonta’s doctoral research Professor Emeritus of Biology at Mississippi Scheduled almost every Saturday Lost In The Amazon Age fossil bones in the Missis- at Louisiana State University College & President of the Clinton Community WED 1:15, 2:15, & 3:15p m sippi Delta and Yazoo Basin. MAR 18 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m Nature Center Association JUN 17- SEP 8 • TRAVELING EXHIBIT at 10:00 a m and 2:00 p m , Opening reception, book centered on the effects of The Discovery Room may be These treasures were found Creature Feature Although its role as a major Creature Features signing and multimedia MAR 7 • TUE • n o o n -1 p m • LECTURE Hurricane Mitch on his study Giant Insects opened at other times, if a staff Not a creature you see highway for commerce and make learning fun! presentation by photographer by walking gravel bars in the Using Global Positioning area of Honduras. The author Insects of giant proportions member or volunteer is available. every day... travel lasted only about 30 Please inquire. Stephen Kirkpatrick. Mississippi River bed along to Protect the Endangered of three books and several APR 8 • SAT • 3p m • BOOK SIGNING will give viewers a new years, the Natchez Trace is Fish Feeding the Mississippi-Arkansas bor- African Mountain Gorilla articles on Honduras, Lost In The Amazon perspective as they explore RESERVED GROUP ACCESS der during seasonal low water. MAR 25 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m Photographer Stephen today a celebrated part of these amazing creatures at Come meet some of our from Disease Dr. Bonta also leads birding JAN/FEB CLASSES Join Lonnie as he shares the Creature Feature Kirkpatrick will present a Mississippi history and folk- 40 to 120 times life size. most fascinating aquarium SPEAKER: Rich Minnis tours of that country. Where Shall We fossil finding techniques that Assistant Research Professor, Department Ready to be surprised? multimedia show and sign lore. Dr. Cox will discuss how inhabitants, every Tuesday and Spend the Winter? led to such rare discoveries of Wildlife and Fisheries, Mississippi State copies of his book Romanc- the Trace came into existence Friday at 10:00 a m . University Call Some migrate, some hibernate, as a Great Short-faced Bear and how the exploits of he- Research suggests that the APR 1 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m ing the Rain, the source of the some just hang around home. jaw and a Manatee arm bone. 601.354.7303 great photos in our “Lost in roes and outlaws made them, Come On Outside! highly endangered African Creature Feature for information, Learn about the diverse winter As the days grow longer and Lonnie will also share his the Amazon” exhibit. and the Trace itself, legendary. FEB 4 • SAT • TRAVELING EXHIBIT Mountain Gorilla is catch- That’s just cool! reservations habitats where animals temperatures get warmer, the Lost In The Amazon site information along the ing diseases from tourists in spend the winter. Mighty Mississippi, as well as & resources Museum’s Native Plant Garden Exhibit opens to the public. the Virunga Mountains and APR 15 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m MAY 6 • SAT • 10a m & 2p m MAR/APR CLASSES his knowledge of replicating undergoes a dramatic transfor- (see page 1) Vwindi Impenetrable Creature Feature Creature Feature Do I Look Like mation from the drabness of fossil finds. Bet you didn’t know this one... It’s a wild, wild, wild world... My Mama? winter to the spectacular colors Some baby animals look just of spring. Now when you visit like their parents. Others don’t the Garden to experience the even look like the same species. magic of spring, you’ll find new TEACHERS: Do you need CEU Credits? The Museum staff provides training in two inter- We Know Design Your Own Field Trip Let the Museum staff help you coordinate Resource Kits Come learn about the to schedule a workshop or field trip, signs in place identifying many nationally recognized environmental education programs, Project WILD and Project WET. Benchmarks field trips for your classroom objectives. Our knowledgeable staff can design hands-on Object kits fascinating life cycles of birds, to reserve a resource kit, frogs, and butterflies. of the different plants. So come Teacher Workshops can be conducted at your school or at the Museum. Each workshop is Museum resources experiences to meet a variety of curriculum objectives—from habitats to adaptations, and videos are on outside and discover the rich to learn more about how our Museum can help teachers meet six hours long with a fee of $10 per person. CEU credits for the programs are available from careers to scientific skills and processes. Let the Museum make your job easier and available to enrich To reserve a class time, variety of Mississippi flora! can help meet your classroom needs, benchmarks, competencies, This season consider the Mississippi College for an additional fee. To schedule a workshop, call the Project WILD or make a difference for your students. classroom lessons. Migratory Bird Kit or call Joan Elder and teaching objectives. 601.354.7303 ext. 136. call 601.354.7303 Project WET Coordinator. Mammal Kit (shown above) to create interest.

6 Winter 2006 MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE Winter 2006 7 EDUCATION & RESEARCH NOTES AQUARIUM & TRAIL NEWS

At Home in Mississippi and the Amazon Katrina’s Trails

The purple martin, North America’s largest holes they find in trees, or rock outcroppings. isitors to our trails this winter and spring large population of insects, which then become swallow, is a neo-tropical migratory bird. Purple Purple martins eat on the wing, catching will find the forest altered somewhat by food for larger animals. Gaps provide openings martins spend the winter in South America and their prey as they swoop through the air. Dragon- V Hurricane Katrina. Falling trees damaged allowing animals to feed on the new vegetation, return to North America for summer breeding. The flies, wasps, damselflies and mosquitoes are some of two areas of our boardwalk. These portions of then to escape back into the shelter of the forest older martins generally arrive first to claim nest sites the favorite dishes of these insectivores. Martins are the trail were closed for some time to rebuild. when necessary. they have previously used. The males fiercely defend also known to eat their young’s empty eggshells, a Overall the forest had little damage, Gaps develop different ecological charac- these preferred sites. New breeders usually arrive a wonderful source of calcium. These aerial acrobats but Katrina’s strong winds created some new teristics than the surrounding forest. They are few weeks later. You can expect to see the first of the have also managed to become skillful drinkers on forest gaps. Gaps are openings in the canopy, usually brighter and warmer due to the increased purple martins returning to Mississippi in February the wing. They use their lower bill to scoop water as which may be small when formed by the loss amount of sunlight. Additionally, the soil com- or March. they fly over rivers, ponds, and other water sources. of branches or large when caused by the fall of position may be changed slightly as deep soil is Purple martins are “colonial cavity nest- Don’t expect to see them relaxing at a birdbath. entire trees. Other than clearing the debris from carried to the surface by uprooted trees. Plant he Amazon River and Amazon basin are ers,” meaning they use protective enclosures to build During August and September the purple the walking trails, our policy is to leave fallen species that need sunny areas for their seeds to home to so many exotic species of plants and nests. Prior to the arrival of Europeans on this conti- martins will begin their trek southward. They con- trees in place. By doing so, the trees are allowed germinate will now have an opportunity to grow. T animals that biologists have yet to classify them nent, Native Americans used empty gourds to attract gregate in large groups and then migrate to Brazil to return their nutrients to the forest as they Initially the gaps may have a wildflower bloom all. Many of these species are unique to the Amazon, the martins. Today in the eastern United States, and other places in South America where insects decay. Various organisms assist in this process, in the spring, followed by vines like blackberries existing nowhere else in the world. One common purple martins rely almost exclusively on nest boxes are plentiful. During the winter they will molt and including bacteria, fungi, and insects. These and catbriers. Soon tree seedlings of sweetgum, Amazon species, however, is familiar to most or birdhouse apartments that bird lovers provide. put on a new suit of feathers in preparation for their organisms devour the tree from the outside and ash, oak, and tulip tree will begin growing. These Mississippians. In fact, you probably see this species Out west the martins still tend to take advantage spring journey back to North America. from within, making pulp of the once strong wood. species grow rapidly (in terms of tree life spans) and in your own neighborhood each summer. of natural crevices such as woodpecker holes, other Amazon basin by Stephen Kirkpatrick. Martin house courtesy USDWF. Forest gaps allow for a greater diversity of within about ten years the gap will again be filled. animals in the area. The decaying wood brings in a

A Perilous Journey The Pearl: In Nature and Under Glass

t’s nearing that time of year when millions of concentrate migrating birds as they travel through You can help ensure rom its source in the Tombigbee National Forest that can be found in the river. A few of our prizes are neo-tropical migratory birds make their annual the state. Many species may be heard and seen from that our migrants reach their in Choctaw County, the Pearl River flows past the alligator gar, longnose gar, freshwater drum, and I migration from Central and South America to the Museum nature trails as they make their way destination by keeping cats F Jackson, Monticello, Columbia, Picayune and buffalo fish. Popular game fish may also be seen in the United States and Canada, taking advantage along the Pearl River through Jackson. indoors during migration season many other towns and communities on its winding, this tank. of abundant food resources and nesting sites. The and by reducing the potential southerly course to the Gulf of Mexico. One special resident is “Lucie Blue,” our season’s longer days also allow more time for birds to The largest cause for decline in migratory for collisions. The Pearl, which got its name from early ex- enormous white catfish. Lucie is short forluecistic , find food and feed their young. Some birds migrate bird populations is loss of habitat. plorers who found pearls in mussels on the river bot- meaning that she lacks pigmentation, and blue is for by day and others by night. They use cues such as the tom, is still inhabited by several types of freshwater the type of catfish that she is, a blue catfish(Ictalurus sun, stars, landmarks, and the earth’s magnetic field This long, dangerous migration requires mussels. The Pearl is also populated by many species furcatus). When she was placed in the aquarium to help find their way. tremendous energy. The ruby-throated humming- of fish, reptiles and other animals, some of which are Lucie Blue weighed 67 pounds. How much do you Conservationists are concerned about the bird will gorge itself on insects and nectar before endangered. Endangered ringed map think she weighs now? Be honest, we all know how survival of many migratory bird species. The largest starting the journey. This tiny bird, which weighs turtles are found only in the Pearl fishermen exaggerate! cause for declines is the loss of habitat. Whether they less than a penny, must have enough energy to fly and may be seen basking on logs caught by fishermen as far upstream as the Ross breed here or are stopping by on their way farther 600 miles non-stop across the Gulf of Mexico. After from the Museum’s lower nature Barnett Reservoir spillway. north, migratory birds use all kinds of habitats in crossing the Gulf, biologists estimate that more than trail. Gulf sturgeon periodi- The Museum’s Pearl River aquarium pres- Mississippi, from mature forests to scrubby and open 700 million birds die each year from collisions with For information on cally migrate up the Pearl River ents life under the surface of this river. Special effort places. Forested floodplains along the Pascagoula, power lines, communication towers, windows, and reducing collisions, visit to spawn before returning to was made not only to include species that naturally occur in the Pearl, but also to accurately depict this Lucie Blue Pearl, and Mississippi River systems are especially wind turbines. Outdoor cats kill millions each year http://www.fws.gov/birds/ the salt water of the Mississippi our luecistic blue catfish important since they provide corridors that as well. documents/Collisions.pdf. Sound. Sturgeon exceeding six underwater river environment from a fish’s point (Ictalurus furcatus) in the Pearl River aquarium. feet in length have been accidentally of view. This aquarium is home to several large fish

8 Winter 2006 MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE Winter 2006 9 PATRONS / SPONSORS / VOLUNTEERS FOUNDATION

New Members/Donors

Steadfast Supporters Christie Cotten James & Emily Hester Charla Miley Anthony J. Spann Sustaining Brandon, MS Brandon, MS Jackson, MS Harvey, l a Donors Melissa Patterson Feild Cooperative Canton, MS Preston & Jennifer John & Charlene Dean Miller Janet Simms Jackson, MS Vicksburg, MS Association Crowe Honigfort Jackson, MS $100,000–$200,000 $50,000–$100,000 Without loyal $25,000–$50,000 $10,000–$25,000 Brandon, MS Madison, MS Jessica North Mark Smith Vicksburg, MS Soso, MS Todd Happer patrons and sponsors, Mr. & Mrs. Emanuel Jim & Rana Hood Brooklyn, NY Abe Rotwein Family BellSouth Blue Cross Blue Shield The Armstrong Foundation Friend Richland, MS Melanie & Bill O’Keefe Tim & Emily Smith Crystal Terry, MS Jackson, MS Jackson Convention & our work would be Ed Swiatlo Jackson, MS Lyn Isonhood The Chisholm Foundation Magalen O. Bryant & Tara Wildlife Bureau of Land Management BancorpSouth Foundation Ridgeland, MS Jackson, MS The Parry Family Janet Stephenson Visitor’s Bureau Each month the Museum store Vicki P. Davidson Jackson, MS Ridgeland, MS Jackson, MS Management impossible. Jackson, MS Doug & Lori Jones Deposit Guaranty / AmSouth Delta and Pine Land Company Feild Cooperative Association Florence, MS Kim Peyton Kathy Still Mississippi Power offers a thoughtful selection of Rebecca Dew Madison, MS Brandon, MS Foundation Chevron Family Jackson, MS Grant D. Kessler Company Georgia Pacific Corporation Howard Industries, Inc. Madison, MS Mr. & Mrs. Trey Porter James & Mignonne Gulfport, MS FOUNDATION We rely on their generous gift items that coordinate with Jeff Allegrezza Michele DeWeese Jackson, MS Ergon Entergy International Paper Foundation Jackson Convention Jackson, MS Madison, MS Scott Kinney Tadlock Patagonia, Inc. gifts to support ongoing Jackson, MS Pard Pryor Clinton, MS Ventura, CA Judy Arrington Laura Dyess Jackson, MS & Visitor’s Bureau current exhibitions and educational Madison, MS Rankin County The Mississippi Museum Bryant Mather Environmental Protection Agency research, to expand our Merrill Lynch Ridgeland, MS Teresa Lanum Dr. & Mrs. Van Temple Tracey Ballenger Brandon, MS Guangzhi Qu & Jackson, MS Mastergardner Mississippi Arts Commission Sally Fontenot Brandon, MS Mississippi Museum of Natural Friede Goldman educational programs, to Mississippi Power Company programming. Brandon, MS Jackson, MS Ruth Boyd & Xinhong Zhang Terri Ulmer of Natural Science Foundation Science Foundation maintain and enhance our Mississippi Forestry Association Clinton & Nicole Marc & Michelle Cassandra Lenston Ridgeland, MS Vicksburg, MS Jacqueline & Avery Gannett Foundation/ Mississippi Valley Gas Bracey Jackson, MS Christie Gram Ramsey Christopher Wiggs Rollins is the lifeblood of our Museum, Most items promote education and Foster Houston, TX Ridgeland, MS Madison, MS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service The Clarion-Ledger permanent exhibits, and Molpus Woodlands Group Mississippi Forestry Foundation Clinton, MS Jackson, MS Andrew Lin Hattiesburg, MS Caleb Ray Victoria Wilbourne providing man-power, financial to bring the finest traveling Nichole Baker Felix Y. Garth III Wesson, MS Ridgeland, MS Plum Creek Foundation National Geographic Society the natural wonders of our state. Jackson, MS Jackson, MS Jon Lindemann Gertrude C. Ford Foundation exhibits available. Vicksburg, MS Jan Richardson & Denise Willis Education Foundation Robert Bridges Mike Godfrey Southaven, MS In Memory assistance and moral support. ~ Pruet Companies Canton, MS Florence, MS Joseph Martin Allen Richert Phil Hardin Foundation Jackson, MS Mrs. Val Reynolds Special thanks Soterra LLC From books to fossils, Tom Box Russ & Amy Granberry Ridgeland, MS Jackson, MS The Foundation Board Trustmark National Bank Brandon, MS Florence, MS Paul Martin Maurice Rieffel by Libby & Paul Mr. & Mrs. Dudley Hughes go to the following for their Starkville, MS Sprint PCS/US Unwired jewelry to puppets, and Carol Hammond- Cheryl Greaves Flowood, MS Individual Hartfield of Directors invites you support of visiting exhibits: U.S. Department of Transportation Jackson, MS Patrick & Mona Jim & Myra Roberts Gianna Brockhoff Nola Ann & Jack Irby Companies The Straddlefork Foundation Brown Jackson, MS “Lost in the Amazon” U.S. Forest Service science kits to t-shirts­— Ridgeland, MS Alison Guynes Maxwell Flowood, MS Herring to join today! Ridgeland, MS Wesson, MS Danielle Robbins D. Crispin Mississippi Richard McRae, Jr. Family Weyerhaeuser Company Paige Budda Madison, MS Patagonia, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. William J. Van make your shopping choice Brandon, MS Richard Hammond Ivory & Cassandra Jackson, MS Museum of Ventura, CA Foundation Jackson, MS Jacqueline & Avery John Lyons, Jr. Natural Science Officers Mississippi Chemical Corporation Sarah Buffington McCalpin Staff Sanderson Farms, Inc. Devender Wild Turkey Federation a natural one! Jackson, MS Stacey Hansen Byram, MS Rollins Brandon, MS George Allen Mississippi Laurel, MS Keith & Adrienne Jackson, MS Mr. & Mrs. David Madison, MS Lisa McKay Mrs. Renee Smith President Walker Foundation Bradley & Kasey Robert Russell Brandon, MS San diego, ca Chris Zachow Farm Bureau Federation Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gaston Carter McWhorter Flowood, MS by Lee & Richard MADISON, MS Jackson, MS Harrelson Jackson, MS William R. Presson Vice President Dr. & Mrs. Julian Wiener Jackson, MS Harding ~ Jay & Cori Ciaccio Jackson, MS Tootsie & W.H. Merrell Julia Sanderson & Janice Larson National Fish Mary Ann Walt Libby & Paul Secretary/Treasurer “What Came After the Dinosaurs” Madison, MS Pete & Myrna Heard Brandon, MS Alan Smith Hartfield and Wildlife Foundation/ Yazoo Mississippi Brandon, MS Brandon, MS Hattiesburg, MS Roger & Laura Clapp Chad & Margery BOARD OF DIRECTORS Shell Marine Habitat Program Feild Cooperative Delta Levee Board Florence, MS Joel & Susan Herring Van Meter Jenny Schow Association Jackson, MS Jackson, MS Clinton, MS George Allen Libby Hartfield Dr. & Mrs. Steve Zachow JACKSON, MS Alex Alston, Jr. Matt Holleman III Kevin Caldwell Janice Larson Betsy Creekmore Jennie McIntosh When you join the MMNS Foundation, Opal Dakin John Rings Deborah Dawkins Avery Rollins you get so much more than just member benefits... Marianne Dempsey Rosalie Rotwein You get the satisfaction of knowing you are protecting our state’s rare and endangered Theo Dinkins III Ollye Brown Shirley Willful Adventurers species, supporting important biological research, and educating our young people. As Halla Jo Ellis Catchings B. Smith a Foundation member, you will help further our core mission of promoting the under- Sean Wesley Ellis Sheila Smith Romancing the Rain standing and appreciation of Mississippi’s biological diversity. Your contribution will also Frank Gallina Scott Steele by Stephen Kirkpatrick Dick Hall Chris Zachow hey have the flora and fauna of Tishomingo State Park, and enable us to enhance and expand the Museum’s work well into the future. Dick Harding sailed on a in their latest adventure, traveled to the Mississippi $38.00 MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES Biloxi oyster River’s Rosedale sandbar in the Great River Road Don’t forget to add 7% sales tax Individual ($25) Donor ($500) Sustaining Member ($1,000 or more) T Benefits of Membership schooner to Horn State Park to become amateur paleontologists, find- and $3.50 shipping and handling Family ($50) Patron ($500) Corporate Member ($5,000 or more) All members enjoy free admission Island, voyaged ing fossils and rocks. for mail orders. Friend ($100) Benefactor Member ($750) on a charter boat And along the way they learned, ate, to the Museum, invitations to Other donor/sponsor opportunities are available. Call 601.354.7303 members-only events, a subscription up the Pascagoula discovered, snacked, talked, dined, hiked, lunched, NAME______PHONE______to our newsletter, and discounts at River, motored photographed, enjoyed each other’s company, and the Dragonfly Shoppe. Higher levels by pontoon boat swapped marvelous stories of where they come have Foundation members ADDRESS______of membership receive additional through the Honey Island from, what they’ve done, and places they’ve visited. receive a 10% discount. benefits, such as public recognition of Swamps, and traveled via These travelers are some of the Museum’s CITY/STATE/ZIP______their contributions, additional admission passes, and even the private a passenger ferry to Ship Camp Shelby, watched wood storks at Tara most faithful supporters — the Museum Volunteers. SHOPPE HOURS If children are to be included in this membership, please check one of the following (not valid for Individual Memberships). This membership is for: use of Museum facilities. Island. Wildlife, and seen the remote piney woods These fun-filled field trips are an important learning MON-SAT 9:00a m - 4:00p m And all memberships entitle you to free Parents and their children under age 18 They have habitat of the endangered Mississippi gopher tool in the Museum’s mission to promote under- SUN 1:00 - 4:00p m admission to more than 200 other visited the red-cockad- frog at Glen’s Pond in Harrison County. standing and appreciation of Mississippi’s biological Grandparents and up to four grandchildren under age 18 museums nationwide through a The Dragonfly Shoppe is a ed woodpecker habitat They have stood in Walter Anderson’s pri- diversity. To become part of this adventuresome Other adult family members and up to four children under age 18 reciprocal membership program. Mississippi Museum of Natural Relationship to children: Aunt/Uncle Guardian in the Desoto National Forest, vate house inside the Walter Anderson Museum group and join us on future outings, contact the Science Foundation sponsor. Call 601.354.7303 glimpsed the Mississippi sandhill cranes in Gautier, in Ocean Springs, strolled through the Crosby Museum at 601-354-7303. If you checked one of the above, please list name and date of birth of each child on a separate sheet. for more information. Arboretum, traveled up the Natchez Trace to see viewed gopher tortoise holes and pitcher plants at Great Museums Are Built on Strong Foundations. Become part of that Foundation today.

10 Winter 2006 MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE Winter 2006 11 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, Miss. permit no. 932

The Mississippi Museum Climb.Crawl. of Natural Science is located on I-55 at Lakeland Drive Slither.Fly. —within LeFleur’s Bluff State Park— Burrow.Swim. However you get around, get to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. Come discover our 100,000-gallon aquarium network, Museum Hours more than 60,000 feet of exhibits, over 300 acres of MON-FRI 8:00am to 5:00pm forest and streams, and 2.5 miles of walking trails. SAT 9:00am to 5:00pm Don’t miss our internationally recognized traveling SUN 1:00 to 5:00pm exhibits, our engaging educational programs, our Admission Adults: $5 From Interstate-55, take Exit 98B hands-on, pre-school Discovery Room, and the Children 3-18: $3 ever-popular Dragonfly Shoppe. heading east on Lakeland. Senior Citizens 60 and over: $4 Turn south onto Highland Drive and So get out of your shell. Children Under 3: FREE left at the Park entrance. School Groups of 10 or more: $2/person Pay admission at the gatehouse. Come down from your tree. Members: FREE Swim up to the shore. 601.354.7303 Memberships www.mdwfp.com/museum Become a member of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation. Enjoy free admission and other great benefits while you theDiscover Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. help the Museum continue its mission. (See page 11 for more details.)

12 Winter 2006