Creature of the day: The Gopher Tortoise 🐢🐢 The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a species of tortoise in the family Testudinidae. The species is native to the southeastern United States. The gopher tortoise is seen as a keystone species because it digs burrows that provide shelter for at least 360 other animal species. G. polyphemus is threatened by predation and habitat destruction. Gopher tortoises are herbivore scavengers and opportunistic grazers. Thus, their diets contains over 3

How You Can Protect Our Gopher Tortoises - These gentle creatures play a crucial role in our ecosystem. Learn why preserving their habitat is essential and how you can help ensure their survival. Learn more about how to protect them and the state protections: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/#:~:text=In Florida, the gopher tortoise,before capturing and relocating tortoises. | City of Dunedin Florida - Government