Teachers and students across the state are invited to celebrate wildlife through art by participating in the 35th annual Give Wildlife a Chance poster contest, sponsored by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, and The Environmental Resources Network (TERN), friends group of DNR’s Wildlife Conservation Section.
The goal of this competition for grades K-5 is to generate knowledge of and appreciation for Georgia’s biological diversity. The 2024-25 theme is “Colors of the Wild: Blend In or Stand Out?” to highlight the variety of colors and patterns seen in wildlife. The appearance of native animals and plants is exciting and beautiful and can also help them survive.
Some animals use camouflage to blend in with their environment, either to hide from predators or better sneak up on prey, while others are brightly colored and stand out, either to attract a mate or warn of a potential threat. Some harmless animals even gain protection by mimicking those with warning colors.
Students can observe birds, insects, and other wildlife in their backyard, schoolyard, or local park as inspiration for their artwork. The artwork must be based on this year’s theme and adhere to the contest rules, which are available online at georgiawildlife.com/poster contest.
Typically, students enter their artwork at the local level through their school, but it can also be through another group hosting the poster contest, such as a homeschool organization, after-school camp, Scout troop, library branch, etc.
Top school-level entries will advance to the state contest at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens. First, second, and third-place winners will be chosen for four divisions: kindergarten, first and second grade, third and fourth grade, and fifth grade.
The deadline for schools to submit digital photos of state-level entries is March 7, 2025.
The top 12 state-level winners’ artwork will be showcased on the DNR Wildlife Resources Division and State Botanical Garden social media sites. Also, as a special perk, each state-level winner’s teacher and one parent will be eligible to receive a free DNR wildlife license plate, courtesy of TERN.
For complete contest rules, awards, entry forms, and other information, visit online at georgiawildlife.com/ postercontest.