Gopher Tortoise
& Florida Box Turtle

Gopher tortoises are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act. Their reduced populations are the result of habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation caused by urban development, agriculture, and other human activities. It is illegal to harm, harass, capture, or kill them without proper permits. In addition to federal protections, many states within their range have laws and regulations in place to conserve gopher tortoise populations and their habitats.

This is a non-releasable waif, or homeless gopher tortoise and depends on humans for survival.

Florida box turtles are long-lived animals. Some individuals have been known to live for over 100 years in captivity. Their slow growth rate and low reproductive rate contribute to their longevity.

The turtles in this enclosure were illegal pets and kept in inadequate living conditions. Many of these turtles have deformed shells which pose significant threats to their safety if released into the wild. 

Learn more from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/reptiles/freshwater-turtles/box-turtles/