Naturally Florida

Highlighting a Keystone Species: The Gopher Tortoise

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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 some basic identification information, population status, biology, and things you can to do help populations in Florida. 

Learn more:
  • Watch our webinar - https://youtu.be/1QhwxOb0Cb4 
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission - Gopher Tortoise Program - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/ 
  • The Gopher Tortoise Council - https://gophertortoisecouncil.org/gopher-tortoise 
    • How You Can Help:
    • Add native forage species to your yard - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/help/plant-guide/ 
    • Find out what to do if you find a gopher tortoise near you (injured, healthy, or deceased) - https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/tortoise-sightings/ 
    • Help get them out of the road - Place them on the side of the road in the direction they were heading (Note: Do not place them in water) 
      • Sources for this Episode:
      • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission - Gopher Tortoise Education - https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/ 
      • Fire Effects Information System - Species: Gopherus polyphemus - www.fs.usda.gov/database/feis/animals/reptile/gopo/all.html 


        • If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

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        Naturally FloridaBy Shannon Carnevale and Lara Milligan
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