Georgia’s Coastal Habitat Region Important Questions and Answers to Know! Ms. Enright Ms. Enright

How would you describe the coastal plain region? The coastal plain region is located south of the piedmont region. This is the largest region in Georgia. The land is flat with loamy soil (good for farming) and sandy soil (near the ocean). Most of Georgia’s farms and crops are in this region. Animals include the brown thrashers, wild hogs, deer, gopher tortoises, and seagulls. Plants include crops like peanuts, peaches, and cotton. Also Live Oaks trees, Spanish Moss, and Saw Palmettos live here. Plants and animals thrive in an environment with flat land and hot climate.

Why would the coastal plain habitat be best suited for this animal? Gopher Tortoise – The gopher tortoise is a reptile that burrows deep into the sandy soil of the Coastal Plains using its wide flat claws. They eat primarily plants and herbs that grow low to the ground. They also require a lot of sunlight. The lack of thick forest areas along the Coastal Plains region is perfect to meet this requirement.

Why would the coastal plain habitat be best suited for this animal? Wild Hogs – Wild or feral hogs in Georgia prefer the cover of dense brush for protection, but also may be found in mature woodlands and grassy areas. During hot weather they spend much of their time wallowing in swamps, wetlands, ponds, and streams close to protective cover. Feral hogs are omnivorous and will eat anything from grain to carrion. Plant matter constitutes an important part of their diet. When available, acorns are preferred. They also consume roots and invertebrates such as centipedes, leeches, earthworms and crayfish. In certain areas, crops make up a significant portion of their diet. Wild hogs have been known to travel up to seven miles to feed on agricultural crops.

Why would this habitat be suited for specific plants? Live Oak – The Live Oak is a tree that remains green during the winter months, making it look “alive” instead of dead during the winter. It grows in sandy soils and the leaves are waxy and repel salt spray. This allows it to live near saltwater areas, such as the Atlantic Ocean or brackish swamps.

Why would this habitat be suited for specific plants? Saw Palmetto - Saw Palmetto is a common understory plant, often found growing thicket-like in southern Georgia and the Florida peninsula. It is a low, spreading palm with stiff leaves and spiny leaf stems. In coastal regions, it is an aggressive spreader. It is tolerant of salt spray and drought, and is an excellent choice for coastal landscapes.

What are the features of animals that allow them to live and thrive in this region of Georgia? Webbed feet for walking in sand along coast. Birds have long legs. Thin coats/skin to survive harsh hot conditions. Claws to dig in loamy or sandy soil for homes. Animals can migrate over large areas for food or shelter.

What are the features of plants that allow them to live and thrive in this region of Georgia? Plants can grow in sandy soil close to ocean. Waxy leaves that can repel salt spray. Plants grow quickly. Drought resistant plants that can store water. Thin bark to survive hot conditions. Long root systems spread out wide or go deep into the ground to absorb water. During a fire, while above-ground portions of grasses may perish, the root portions survive to sprout again (grasses). Extensive root systems prevent grazing animals from pulling roots out of the ground. Soft stems enable plants to bend in the wind.