The Gopher Tortoise is Florida's only native tortoise and can be found in all 67 counties. These herbivores live for 40 - 60 years in the wild. They rely on forest fires to clear the ground to make way for food and burrows. Gopher Tortoises thrive in habitats with well-drained, sandy soils where they dig burrows that are  6-8 feet deep and average 15 feet long.

Gopher Tortoises are a Keystone Species. A keystone is an odd-shaped stone at the top of an arch. If the keystone is removed, the arch will fall.

What makes a Gopher Tortoise a Keystone Species? 

Over 350 animals find refuge in the burrows from storms, fires, hurricanes, and heat. The burrows maintain an even temperature and humidity year-round. These animals (known as commensal species) include indigo snakes, gopher frogs, rattlesnakes, skinks, gopher mice, and dune wolf spiders.  The forest floor counts on Gopher Tortoises to disperse seed via scat. With plants and animals depending on them, if we remove Gopher Tortoises from their habitat, the entire ecosystem will crumble. 

Gopher Tortoises begin to lay eggs at 10-21 years old.  They lay 5-9 ping-pong-sized eggs in the sandy apron near the entrance of their burrow.  The eggs will incubate for up to 110 days in the sun-warmed sand. When the hatchlings surface, they run for cover in the grasses.  Because there is no parental involvement after the eggs are laid, the eggs and hatchlings are most vulnerable to predators.  Water birds, foxes, raccoons, snakes, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, armadillos, fire ants, and dogs are among the many predators. Unfortunately, there is only a 3-5% survival rate.

Gopher Tortoises have been with us for over sixty million years.  Today, they are a state-designated Threatened species in Florida. Sadly, they live in habitats prized by developers. The sandy soils they need to survive are perfect landscapes for human houses.  Habitat fragmentation leads to strikes by vehicles when Gopher Tortoises are crossing roads. Other threats include herbicides, pet trade, invasive species, and climate change. 

What Can You Do to Help?

Stay off the apron to avoid stomping on eggs. 

Keep pets on a leash and away from burrows. 

Advocate locally for the preservation of habitat. 

Avoid weed killer. Pull weeds by hand and plant native grasses and wildflowers. 

Drive carefully as you watch for Gopher Tortoises crossing the road.

Although it is illegal to touch a gopher tortoise, if you see one crossing the road, you may pick it   up and place it on the side of the road in the direction it is going. 

Never move a Gopher Tortoise to a different location. These amazing reptiles have the best built-in GPS system. Therefore, they will face many dangers as they head back home. 

Never put a Gopher Tortoise in water. They are land animals and cannot swim!

Together, we can educate and empower Floridians to become a voice for our wildlife, advocate for environmental stewardship, and coexist within our unique ecosystems.

Imagine Our Florida is a 501c3 science-based educational organization that teaches folks of all ages to connect, respect, and coexist with wildlife within our unique ecosystems. Be sure to stop By Imagine Our Florida's booth at Earth Fest in Casselberry on April 29. Bring the kids and also learn about Florida Black Bears and how to coexist with them in this interactive hands-on program, which is sure to thrill everyone! More info visit: www.imagineourflorida.org