Gopher tortoises are one of the world's oldest living species, belonging to a group of land tortoises that evolved in North America 60 million years ago. But by 2100, a study has found, they could be nearly extinct without meaningful intervention. The study reveals that the Fish and Wildlife Service used a flawed population model to deny tortoises federal protection in 2022. Now we’re in court to reverse that denial, but we need your help to make sure the agency follows the science. Tell the Ser

11K views · 287 reactions | Gopher tortoises are ecosystem engineers...

4.2K views · 150 reactions | Join us for a Day in the Life of a Gopher Tortoise for Florida Gopher Tortoise Day! Gopher tortoises are a keystone species whose burrows provide important habitats for over 350 commensal species like indigo snakes, burrowing owls, etc. This is why protecting gopher tortoises & their habitat is so essential. | Defenders of Wildlife | Facebook

2.5K views · 286 reactions | Our gopher tortoise enjoys a daily walk, especially when he comes across a good patch of clover like this. After a while, he took a break from the clover buffet to relax in a warm, sunny spot! Reptiles need sunlight to produce vitamin D3 so they can properly absorb calcium. Video Credit: Sarah Buffington | Mississippi Museum of Natural Science | Facebook