Gopher Tortoise Services in Sarasota, FL

Gopher Tortoises are a protected species and are an important part of Florida's natural ecosystems. Many other native animal species depend on gopher tortoises for their own survival. Gopher tortoises typically prefer to live in dry scrubland habitats. They are land-dwelling animals and do not swim or live in water like common turtles in Florida. They are called gopher tortoises because they are known for digging burrows in the ground which they live in as shelters to protect them from predators and natural elements. Gopher tortoise burrows can sometimes reach lengths of 40 feet long and be as much as 10 feet deep in the ground. They also nest and lay their eggs in the ground burrows which they dig. Many other native creatures rely on gopher tortoise burrows for shelter as they often become abandoned over time. The gopher tortoise is considered a keystone species and around 360 other animal species rely on them for the burrows they provide in nature. The conservation status of the native gopher tortoise species is considerably vulnerable due to development and loss of habitats. It is important to protect local gopher tortoises as an important part of our ecological conservation efforts in Florida.

Animal Rangers, Inc. provides professional services for gopher tortoises in areas planned for development or where their safety may be threatened. In Florida, it is illegal to capture and relocate gopher tortoises without a permit from FWC. Animal Rangers licensed gopher tortoise agents are authorized to provide these services within certain guidelines. We provide land surveys to locate and document active tortoise burrows. Our Sarasota, FL licensed gopher tortoise agents also provide removal services to capture and relocate tortoises to registered recipient sites for conservation. Tortoises may be humanely trapped and relocated in accordance to state and federal guidelines. Sometimes tortoise burrows may need to be excavated for removal. Check our service areas below to see if we have wildlife management technicians near you.

Office: (941) 421-0149