The Mississippi Kite is a southern species mostly found south of the park. It was unknown in the park during its first 50+ years, but has been seen several times during fall migration in recent years at Look Rock (late September 1989 and late October 1992) and Purchase Knob (October 2003 and 2004). It is unclear where these birds are coming from.

This species is considered significantly rare (North Carolina) or of special concern (Tennessee) in the park's two states.

In Park: Park records are from Look Rock (late September 1989 and late October 1992) and Purchase Knob (October 2003 and 2004).

References:

Gough, G. A., Sauer, J. R., Iliff, M. Patuxent Bird Identification Infocenter. 1998. Version 97.1. Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD. http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/id/framlst/infocenter.html.