The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) extends an invitation to everyone to join in the celebration of Gopher Tortoise Day.
This special occasion, dedicated to honoring the remarkable Gopher Tortoise, offers a range of events, proclamations, and activities for all ages. To stay updated and participate in the festivities, visit GopherTortoiseDayFL.com and engage with the hashtag #GopherTortoiseDay on social media platforms.
Here are some valuable tips to contribute to the well-being of gopher tortoises throughout the year:
Observe and Protect: If you encounter a gopher tortoise in the wild that appears healthy and safe, it’s best to leave it undisturbed.
Assist with Road Crossings: Should you witness a gopher tortoise crossing a road, and it’s safe for you to intervene, gently relocate it to a secure location along the roadside, ensuring it continues its journey in the same direction. Remember never to place tortoises in water, as they lack the swimming abilities of turtles.
Report and Notify: Promptly report sightings of gopher tortoises and their burrows to the FWC. Additionally, notify authorities if you encounter a sick, injured, or deceased tortoise.
Create Tortoise-Friendly Environments: Transform your home and neighborhood into welcoming habitats for gopher tortoises by planting native vegetation and implementing practices conducive to their well-being.
Educate Yourself and Others: Explore the wealth of resources available through the FWC’s Gopher Tortoise Program Education Corner and Education Resources Page. Discover engaging activities for children, informative fact sheets, captivating posters, and more.
Gopher tortoises, designated as a threatened species and protected under Florida law, play a crucial role in the state’s ecosystem. It is imperative to refrain from harming these gentle creatures, their eggs, or their burrows. Relocation without proper authorization, possession of tortoises or their parts, and any violations against them are strictly prohibited. To report wildlife violations, contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
The Gopher Tortoise Council, which initiated Gopher Tortoise Day in 2016, aims to foster greater appreciation and support for the conservation of this vital species. Annually celebrated on April 10th, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding our natural heritage.