Gopher Tortoise
Gopherus polyphemus
Conservation Status
VulnerableReptilia · Testudinidae
About
The gopher tortoise 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. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species lists the gopher tortoise as "vulnerable", primarily because of habitat degradation; the animals are considered threatened in some states while they are endangered in others.
Fun Fact
Gopher tortoises spend most of their time in long burrows (up to 80% of their time).
Quick Facts
Habitat
Live in well-defined colonies which are similar to those of highly social animals such as the prairie dog.
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
40 years
Threats
- Habitat Degradation
- Overexploitation
- Invasive Species
- Climate Change