Most Interesting Things About Gopher Tortoises 1. The Ultimate Wildlife Landlords Gopher tortoises are classified as a keystone species due to their incredible engineering skills. They dig deep, extensive underground burrows that provide critical shelter for more than 350 other animal species. These “communal tenants”—including eastern indigo snakes, burrowing owls, gopher frogs, mice, and hundreds […]
Reptiles & Amphibians of Florida
Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)
This captivating reptile, with its vivid scales and prehistoric appearance, is a testament to the unpredictable dynamics of nature. While the Green Iguana is a native of Central and South America, it has found a home in the Sunshine State, much to the delight and sometimes dismay of Floridians. A Tropical Stowaway The story of […]
Southern leopard frog (Lithobates sphenocephalus)
American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus)
Although your likelihood of seeing one of these in Sarasota is remote, their numbers are increasing in Florida.
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program has documented sea turtle nesting activity and the status of shoreline habitat for more than three decades along 35 miles of Sarasota County beaches. Their findings contribute to the statewide understanding of nesting trends.