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The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) averages 9-11 inches
long, but can attain lengths of 15 inches. They can weigh up to 15 pounds.
It occurs throughout Florida but prefers sandy, well drained upland areas.
It eats grasses, bean-family plants, fruits, and grass-like plants of
the sunflower family. They excavate burrows averaging 15 feet in
length, but some burrows can be up to 48 feet long and about six feet deep. Gopher
tortoise burrows may be used by many other species, including the
Florida mouse and indigo snake.
In Florida, the gopher tortoise is a threatened species, and
it is illegal to take, possess, transport, or sell gopher tortoises, or
their eggs, except as authorized by the FWC. Permits from the FWC
are required to relocate tortoises.
For answers to specific gopher tortoise questions contact the FWC
regional office nearest you.
More information
Gopher
Tortoise Council
Wildlife Resources Handbook
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