Gopher Tortoise in Destin-Fort Walton Beach

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Land Resources team recently headed into the field to learn more about one of Florida’s most important native animals: the gopher tortoise. Gopher tortoises play a critical role in Florida’s ecosystems. They are considered a keystone species, meaning their presence supports many other animals. “Their burrows can be home to more than 350 different species,” Jacob explained. “Everything from insects to snakes to small mammals use them for shelter.” During the survey, the team even spotted one unexpected resident. “We put a camera down one of the burrows and found a pygmy rattlesnake hiding inside,” Jacob said. Because their burrows provide refuge from predators, extreme weather and wildfire, protecting gopher tortoises helps protect entire ecosystems.

Species Under Threat
Gopher tortoises are listed as a threatened species in Florida due to habitat loss and development. “They can’t live just anywhere,” explained Rob, another member of the Land Resources team. “They need very specific soil conditions that allow them to dig burrows that won’t collapse.” The ideal habitat often includes sandy soils with some clay, along with upland pine forests or scrub habitats that provide a variety of plants for the tortoises to eat. Unfortunately, those same soil conditions are also attractive for development. “A lot of the places tortoises prefer are also easier and cheaper for developers to build on,” Rob said. “That’s one reason their habitat has become so fragmented.”

Understanding the Landscape
The survey is the first step toward better managing the property for wildlife. “Good management starts with understanding what you have,” Rob said. “We need to know how many tortoises are already using the site and what the habitat looks like.” The property once supported mature longleaf pine forests, but those trees were harvested years ago. Today, hardwoods dominate the landscape while younger pine trees slowly return. By restoring parts of the property to longleaf pine habitat, the Land Resources team hopes to improve conditions for wildlife — including the gopher tortoise.

How You Can Help
Residents can help protect tortoises with a simple action: watching for them on the road.
“If you see a tortoise crossing the road and it’s safe to do so, you can move it to the other side in the direction it was going,” Rob said.
Because tortoises move slowly and reproduce slowly, even saving a single animal can make a meaningful difference.
“Some of those tortoises out there are as old as we are,” Rob added. “A little effort can go a long way in protecting them.”