Saturday, June 18, 2011

Gopher Tortoise Basics for Marco Islanders

We are fortunate here on Marco Island to have a small but thriving population of gopher tortoises. Some live on developed land, a few at the north end of the island but most at the south end along the ridge-line of higher ground that runs along Inlet and Dogwood Drives. Most live on undeveloped lots, which means they are vulnerable when those lots are developed.

They're also vulnerable to careless drivers. Here's how small a young tortoise is when crossing the road - easy to hit if you aren't paying attention!





Here's what it looks like when driver's aren't careful:





Please help us spread the word about the need to protect gopher tortoises on Marco Island - whether from decimation through reckless development or through careless driving.

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