08/03/2026
🐢 Did you know? Gopher tortoises are considered a keystone species, meaning their burrows provide shelter for more than 350 other species of wildlife-including owls, snakes, rabbits, frogs, and insects!
These gentle reptiles spend most of their lives on land and can live 40-60 years or more. If you’re exploring Tomoka State Park, keep your eyes open-you can often spot them slowly making their way through the sandy/grassy areas or near their burrows.
If you do see one, remember to admire it from a distance and never feed or disturb it. They’re an important part of Florida’s natural ecosystem, and we’re lucky to share the park with them.
Have you ever spotted a gopher tortoise at Tomoka State Park? We’d love to see your photos in the comments! 🐢🌿