FWC Home : Wildlife & Habitats : Species Information : Gopher Tortoises in Florida

Gopher Tortoises in Florida

Welcome to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) gopher tortoise Web page, providing information about the gopher tortoise management, permitting, and research. Our goal is to be your source for information on Florida's gopher tortoises.

Browse around with the links on the right to look for:

• general biological information including habitat and natural history
  
• educational brochures and booklets available for download
• frequently asked questions
  
• conservation and management in Florida
  
• news & updates
  
• permitting options for relocating tortoises
  
• opportunities for private landowners
  
• rules and regulations

In Florida, the gopher tortoise is a threatened species. The gopher tortoise and its burrow are protected by state law. Permits from the FWC are required to capture and relocate tortoises. More information about laws protecting the gopher tortoise can be found on our website.

For answers to specific gopher tortoise questions refer to the frequently asked questions page of the web site or contact the FWC regional conservation biologist nearest you.

More information

• Gopher Tortoise Council

Wildlife Viewing Information

• Map of Viewing Locations where you can find gopher tortoise