Have you ever wondered what makes a turtle different from a tortoise? These fascinating creatures are often confused due to their similar appearances. Read on to learn how to distinguish between the two, and to understand how you can help protect ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Forests, Natural Resources, Water, Wildlife, Work & Life
The gopher tortoise is not only a keystone species, but also an endemic species, making it special and important to the overall function of the ecosystems where it is found. In this episode we will explore the life of the gopher tortoise including ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources
Gopher apple (Licani michauxii) is a native plant found in scrubby areas on the Florida Treasure Coast. This diminutive shrubby plant is easily overlooked by passersby. Its typically ankle-high and l not very showy. However, it is an ... READ MORE
Category: Home Landscapes, Natural Resources
April 10th is Gopher Tortoise Day! On any given day in Florida, gopher tortoises may be seen out and about in pine flatwoods or scrub habitats, looking for lunch or basking in the sun... perhaps even in your own backyard! Gopher tortoises ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, Wildlife
There are two species of reptiles that you might have heard about recently here in Florida: the gopher tortoise and the leatherback sea turtle. One species can be found on land while the other spends its entire life in the ocean. Let’s learn ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension, Wildlife
April 10th is Gopher Tortoise Day! On any given day in the scrub, gopher tortoises may be seen out and about, looking for lunch or basking in the sun. The scrub ecosystem is a rare component of our Florida environment and is home to many ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, Wildlife
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 ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources