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GEORGIA. (WALB) - Georgia’s list of protected animals is being updated for the first time in 20 years in 2026. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will make changes to the current list in June.

GDNR is asking citizens to help update this list by adding or removing certain species from the current protected species list. Species can be protected at different levels, differing from plants to animals, according to DNR.

New legislation in Georgia’s 2025 Wildlife Action Plan will allow the changes to be made. Revisions to the protected species list can include:

• Adding and Removing species
• Updating names
• Syncing species with federal conservation lists

“Giving the public an opportunity to review this list and provide input on things we may have missed will help ensure that we provide protected status for the species that are in the greatest need of conservation in our state.”

Suggestions can be submitted here from June 1-30. Participants are asked to review the DNR proposed updates and Protected species list profiles, which include life history, habitat range, and management recommendations. Click here to view that information.

Nominations to add species can range from Endangered, Threatened, Rare, and unusual. DNR definitions for each ranking are listed below.

Endangered species are defined as “Any resident species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, or one which is designated as endangered under the provisions of the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973

Threatened Species are defined as “ Any resident species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range or one that is designated as threatened under the provisions of the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973.”

Rare species are defined as “Any resident species that, although not presently endangered or threatened as defined, should be protected because of its scarcity.”

Unusual species are defined as “Any resident species that exhibits special or unique features and, because of these features, deserves special consideration in its continued survival in the state.”

For Georgia’s list of protected species, click here.

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