Georgia’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the northern mountains to the coastal plains and extensive wetlands, support a wide variety of wildlife. These natural habitats provide essential resources and shelter, making Georgia a significant home for numerous animal species.
Mammals of Georgia
Georgia is home to many mammals. The white-tailed deer is the most numerous large mammal, adapting to forests, farmlands, suburban areas, and swamps. These deer are most active during dawn and dusk, foraging on plants like acorns, grasses, and wild fruits. Black bears also inhabit Georgia, with an estimated statewide population of about 5,100. They are found in three distinct regions: the North Georgia mountains, along the Ocmulgee River drainage, and within the Okefenokee Swamp.
Coyotes, red foxes, and gray foxes occupy various wooded and open areas. Raccoons and Virginia opossums are found near human settlements and wooded areas with access to water. Squirrels, such as the eastern gray squirrel and the larger eastern fox squirrel, are common in hardwood forests and urban environments. Bobcats, nocturnal predators, are present across diverse habitats, from forests to brushlands.
Birds of Georgia
Georgia’s varied ecosystems attract over 340 bird species, including resident and migratory populations. The Northern Cardinal, recognizable by the males’ bright red plumage, is a permanent resident. The Carolina Wren, a non-migratory ground forager, and the Northern Mockingbird, known for its varied songs, are also found year-round. Blue Jays, with their distinctive calls and vibrant blue feathers, can be seen throughout Georgia’s wooded neighborhoods and forests.
Waterfowl, including ducks and geese, inhabit Georgia’s wetlands and waterways. Wading birds like herons and egrets are found in coastal regions and other aquatic environments. Birds of prey include the Red-tailed Hawk, the most common raptor across the state. Other raptors are the Cooper’s Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Barred Owl, and Turkey Vulture.
Reptiles and Amphibians of Georgia
Georgia has a high diversity of reptiles and amphibians, with over 150 species in its varied terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The state is home to approximately 80 amphibian species, encompassing about 50 kinds of salamanders and 30 types of frogs. Notable salamanders include the hellbender, one of the largest in America, found in mountain trout streams, and the Pigeon Mountain salamander. Frogs like bullfrogs, green frogs, and various treefrogs are common, found near ponds and wetlands.
Reptiles are equally diverse, with numerous snake species inhabiting the state. Both venomous snakes, such as Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes and Cottonmouths, and non-venomous species like black racers, are present. Turtles, including snapping turtles and box turtles, are widespread in aquatic and terrestrial environments. Lizards like anoles and skinks are also common throughout Georgia. American alligators are a frequent sight in the rivers, freshwater lakes, and ponds of the southern and coastal regions.
Aquatic Wildlife of Georgia
Georgia’s freshwater systems and coastal waters support a wide array of aquatic wildlife. The state ranks high nationally for its native freshwater fish, with approximately 265 species. Largemouth bass, the state fish, are found in rivers, lakes, and ponds across Georgia. Other freshwater fish include bass species like Altamaha, Redeye, and Shoal bass, which inhabit riverine environments.
Channel catfish and several species of sunfish, suchs as bluegill and redear sunfish, are found in Georgia’s freshwater bodies. The Southern Appalachian brook trout, Georgia’s only native salmonid, prefers the cool waters of headwater streams. The Atlantic sturgeon, a highly migratory species that can exceed eight feet in length, inhabits large coastal rivers.