
Upland ecosystems are non-maritime areas that are not considered wetlands or aquatic, with the water table not being at, near, or above the land surface. Vegetation may include coniferous or deciduous trees, meadows, or grasslands. Mammals may include raccoons, hogs, rodents, deer, and birds such as eagles and hawks. On the Georgia Coast, amphibians and reptiles may be present. Upland areas can be biodiversity hotspots, are source areas for overland water flow, and forest areas serve as significant carbon sinks. These areas can be vulnerable to climate change, deforestation, habitat fragmentation or loss, and the introduction of invasive species.
