Gopher tortoises are land-dwelling reptiles found across the southeastern United States, recognized by their sturdy build and unique adaptations for subterranean life. They typically have a domed shell that can range in color from brown to grayish-black, with a yellowish underside. Adults usually measure between 9 to 15 inches in length and weigh 8 to 15 pounds. Their most distinctive features are their shovel-like forelimbs, covered in thick scales, and their elephantine hind feet, both perfectly suited for digging extensive burrows in sandy soils.
Gopher Tortoise Behavior and Biting
Gopher tortoises are generally docile and not aggressive. While they possess the ability to bite, such instances occur almost exclusively when threatened or mishandled. They might bite if they perceive a finger as food, especially if accustomed to human feeding, or if picked up or harassed. When endangered, their primary defense is to retreat into their shell, using powerful front legs as a shield.
The bite of a gopher tortoise is not venomous, but can deliver a pinch due to strong jaws. Their mouthparts are adapted for grazing on a diverse diet of plants, including various grasses, leaves, shoots, and fruits, not for attacking or aggressive defense. They are opportunistic grazers, consuming over 300 plant species. While a bite is possible, it is uncommon and rarely severe.
Safe Encounters with Gopher Tortoises
Observing gopher tortoises from a respectful distance is the best way to interact. It is illegal to disturb, harass, or harm gopher tortoises or their burrows in any way. Handling or moving a tortoise without authorization causes significant stress and may lead to them abandoning crucial burrows. Improper relocation can also risk spreading diseases to healthy tortoise populations.
If a gopher tortoise bite does occur, basic first aid, like washing the wound with soap and water, is recommended. Although their bite is not venomous, seek medical attention if the wound is deep or shows signs of infection. Should you encounter a gopher tortoise in a road, you may help it cross in the direction it was headed, but do not take it home or move it elsewhere. For sick or injured tortoises, contact the state’s wildlife conservation commission or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Why Gopher Tortoises Matter
Gopher tortoises are considered a keystone species, fundamental to ecosystem health and biodiversity. Their extensive burrows, which can stretch up to 48 feet long and 9.8 feet deep, providing shelter for over 350 species. These “commensal” species include mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates like the Eastern Indigo Snake, Gopher Frog, and Florida Mouse, many depending on these burrows for survival.
The gopher tortoise holds protected status throughout its range, federally listed as threatened in parts of its western range and state-protected elsewhere. Disturbing or harming a gopher tortoise or its burrow is illegal, resulting in significant legal penalties, including substantial fines and potential imprisonment. These protections underscore their importance, not only for their inherent value but also for the wildlife relying on their unique landscape engineering.