St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge

The poisonous cottonmouth, also known as the water moccasin, is found throughout the swampy regions of Georgia and Mississippi.

The red-shouldered hawk is found at the St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge.

The fox squirrel inhabits the St. Catherine Creek wildlife refuge.

St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge provides excellent winter habitats and nesting areas for waterfowl in the Lower Mississippi River Valley.

Totalling 24,442 acres in southwest Mississippi about seven miles south of Natchez, the refuge is comprised of bottomland and upland hardwoods, cleared land, cypress swamps and fallow fields.

There are five permanent bodies of water: Old St. Catherine Creek, Gilliard Lake, Butler Lake, Swamp Lake and Salt Lake. This area can be inundated for large periods of time because of the backwater flooding from the Mississippi River.

Outdoor enthusiasts find the diverse habitat ideal for fishing, hunting, photography, hiking and bird-watching.

A three-mile trail is located near the refuge headquarters in the Sibley Unit.

The refuge supports archery and primitive weapon deer hunting; rabbit and squirrel hunting with and without dogs; and waterfowl hunting. Feral hogs may be taken while hunting other game during the open seasons.

There is a special hunt designed for hunters in wheelchairs during deer season. Pre-registration is required.

Fishing for largemouth bass, white perch, and catfish can be exceptional during certain times of the year. Only hook-and-line fishing is permitted. Small boats may be launched in several areas throughout the refuge.

The refuge is seven miles south of Natchez. The western boundary is the Mississippi River and the southern boundary is the Homochitto River.