UF/IFAS GLOBAL BLOGS
Appearance: The gopher tortoise is a moderate-sized, terrestrial turtle, averaging 23–28 cm (9–11 in) in length. The species is identified by its stumpy, elephantine hind feet and flattened, shovel-like forelimbs adapted for digging. The shell is oblong and… Read More
The 2017 sea turtle nesting season in northeast Florida began in May. Typically, female sea turtles crawl up onto the beach to lay their eggs overnight, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures. However, very occasionally they may nest in… Read More
If you’re familiar with the gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) you’ve probably seen or heard about their characteristic burrows. Gopher tortoises dig their burrows in well-drained, sandy soils throughout the southeast. These burrows average 6 to 8 feet in… Read More
If you’ve ever encountered one of their characteristic burrows (perhaps, unfortunately, even in your yard), you may be familiar with the gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus). Gopher tortoises are the only tortoise found in the southeastern United States and… Read More
DOWNLOAD THE GOPHER TORTOISE SMARTPHONE APP Gopher tortoises are a threatened wildlife species. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission needs your help documenting where gopher tortoises live. Gopher tortoises are long-lived reptiles that occupy upland habitat throughout… Read More
