Gopher Tortoise

Species Overview
Only native US tortoise species that lives east of the Mississippi River.

Physical Characteristics
Brown to grayish-black carapace (top shell) approximately 10–15 inches in length and weighs approximately 9–13 lbs. Females are larger than males. Shovel-like forefeet and elephantine-like back feet assist in digging and living primarily underground in sandy soils.

Habitat and Behavior
Living primarily underground in sandy soils. Cannot swim.

Diet
Forages and eats over 300 species of plants.

Ecological Importance
Keystone species in Florida. Over 350 different species depend on gopher tortoise burrows for shelter.

Protection Status
Federally protected. It is against the law to hurt, relocate, or destroy burrows.

ELC Connection
The ELC is home to over 65 gopher tortoises!