Wildlife
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P.J. Jones
Young gopher tortoise and Bachelor Button
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Pine flatwoods dominate the landscape at Branan Field and species
adapted for this fire dependent community are abundant. Look for the mounds of sand that mark the burrow entrance
of gopher tortoise burrows.
Animals such as indigo snakes, eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, gopher
frogs, pine snakes, and Florida mice find refuge within these burrows. Look for them near burrow entrances
or observe tracks left behind in the soft sand. Eastern bluebirds,
woodpeckers, southeastern kestrels, pine warblers and brown-headed
nuthatches are common residents of pine flatwoods. Listen for the
distinctive calls of the eastern towhee and Bachman’s sparrow.
White-tailed deer and wild turkey are occasionally observed.
Scientists from the University of Florida are conducting research at
Branan Field on upper respiratory track disease (URTDS) in gopher
tortoises. Visitors may notice enclosures marking study sites located
just off main trails. Please respect the boundaries of these sites.
