Species Reptiles & AmphibiansGopher Tortoise

Gopher Tortoise

Gopherus polyphemus

UncommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)

The Gopher Tortoise is a keystone species of southeastern longleaf pine ecosystems. Its deep burrows shelter hundreds of other species. A threatened species heavily affected by habitat loss and development.

Habitat
Longleaf pine sandhills, dry scrub, and sandy uplands in the Southeast
Diet
Grasses, legumes, berries, and low-growing plants
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Gopher Tortoise

The best time to see a Gopher Tortoise is February–July, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 39,147 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Gopher Tortoise sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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