#gopherus

Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), family Testudinidae, found in the SE United States

This is a keystone species. Their burrows are very important shelters for a wide variety for animals.

Vulnerable, due mainly to habitat destruction.

Turtle ID - NOFL, USA:

Ahhhhhhh yes, one of my favorites! You have encountered a Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), family Testudinidae.

Sonoran Desert Tortoises (Gopherus morafkai), family Testudinidae, Saguaro National Park, AZ, USA

Vulnerable

This species was separated from the Desert Tortoise, G. agassizii, in 2011, based on genetic evidence. The population of “Desert Tortoises” found east of the Colorado River are now Sonoran Desert Tortoises, and those west of the river are G. agassizii.

Sonoran Desert Tortoises (Gopherus morafkai), family Testudinidae, Saguaro National Park, AZ, USA

Vulnerable

This species was separated from the Desert Tortoise, G. agassizii, in 2011, based on genetic evidence. The population of "Desert Tortoises" found east of the Colorado River are now Sonoran Desert Tortoises, and those west of the river are G. agassizii.