Georgia State Wildlife Action Plan & species protection

First state species list update in 20 years; public input closed. New 2025–2035 State Wildlife Action Plan released, identifying 1,062 Species of Greatest Conservation Need, emphasizing wildlife corridors, private land stewardship, and an online hub. Gopher tortoise, monarch, saltmarsh sparrow under consideration. Trump admin redefines 'harm' under ESA to exclude habitat destruction – red-cockaded woodpecker example in Georgia; Georgia DNR criticizes change. Paxton lawsuit settlement sets precedent that could embolden challenges to Georgia species protections. Oil and gas development threatens Eastern Indigo Snake, a species of conservation concern in Georgia. Explainer on proposed ESA 'harm' rule change with red-cockaded woodpecker example at Jones Center. Georgia Protected Species List proposed updates – first revision since 2006, tied to 2025 SWAP. UGA scientists ask public to help stop invasive yellow-legged hornets – citizen science piece with diet analysis and tracking methods; timely as nests transition. Georgia urges coastal residents to report yellow-legged hornet nests before one becomes many – direct call to action from Ag Commissioner, emphasizing early detection in coastal counties.