OUR MASCOTS
MEET FLINT & FRIENDS
Bringing Georgia's wildlife to life
through fun and learning.
Conservation is about protecting the amazing places and animals that call Georgia home—but it’s also about inspiring people to care. That’s why the Southern Conservation Trust created Flint & Friends!
Our mascots make nature fun and approachable for all ages, helping kids and families connect with the animals that live in our rivers, forests, and fields. Each mascot represents a species found right here in Georgia, including the Flint River Watershed and Fayetteville’s wild spaces.
MEET OUR MASCOTS
FLINT
The North American River Otter
Why chosen:
Native to Georgia’s rivers, wetlands, and marshes, including the Flint River Watershed. Flint represents clean water and healthy ecosystems.
Favorite Foods:
Fish, crayfish, and other aquatic critters.
Fun Fact:
Flint is an excellent swimmer who can hold his breath for up to 8 minutes while diving for food!
SLY
The Gray Fox
Why chosen:
Found in Georgia’s Piedmont forests, like those around Fayetteville. Sly reminds us to conserve woodlands and wildlife corridors.
Favorite Foods:
Small mammals, insects, fruits, and berries.
Fun Fact:
Unlike most other wild canines, gray foxes can climb trees! Sly loves to scramble up trunks to nap on low branches or escape predators.
HOOTIE
The Barred Owl
Why chosen:
Common in Georgia’s hardwood forests near rivers and swamps—just like the places SCT protects. Hootie represents the mystery of the forest.
Favorite Foods:
Small mammals, birds, amphibians, and even crayfish.
Fun Fact:
Barred owls have nearly silent flight thanks to the special fringes on their feathers, which help them sneak up on prey without being heard.
SHELLY
The Gopher Tortoise
Why chosen:
Georgia’s state reptile is a keystone species. Her burrows shelter 350+ species, showing how connected our ecosystems are.
Favorite Foods:
Grasses, fruits, and low-growing plants.
Fun Fact:
Shelly is a true ecosystem engineer! Her burrows provide shelter for over 350 other species, making her a keystone species in Georgia.
why our mascots matter
Together, Flint & Friends highlight the importance of protecting Georgia’s rivers, forests, and wildlife. They’re not just mascots—they’re ambassadors for conservation, teaching us that protecting one species helps protect them all.
fun with flint & Friends
Download our fun coloring and activity sheets to explore Georgia’s wildlife, get creative, and learn about conservation—all from home!
