Gopherus polyphemus
These tortoises are great diggers. Their burrows provide them with a year-round refuge of constant temperature. Burrows consist of a tunnel and a chamber at the end, either of which will be wide enough for the tortoise to turn around. Most burrows are 15-50 feet long and 6-10 feet deep.
Scientific Name:
Gopherus polyphemus
Native Range:
Southeastern United States
Habitat:
Pine sandhills, oak or pine forests, and coastal scrub areas, but areas must have open canopy and sandy soil to be suitable
Convservation Status:
Critically Endangered
Museum Location:
Mini-Zoo
Lifespan in the Wild:
50-60 years, potentially living upwards of 100 years
Lifespan in Captivity:
50-60 years, potentially living upwards of 100 years
Diet:
Grasses, legumes, low-growing fruits, succulents, fungi; occasional carrion and insects.
