Gopher Tortoise Photos

Florida Wildlife: Gopher Tortoises

Gopher Tortoise Photo Slide Show – Marco Island Living

View Florida Photos of Gopher Tortoises. The Gulf Coast Florida region has been home to the Gopher Tortoise for centuries. These amazing creatures may be found roaming the sandy hills in the estate section of Marco Island. Please do not harass or feed these animals. Gopher Tortoise makes their homes in burrows. Enjoy the photos of Gopher Tortoises in their natural habitat. Feature your business online in Marco Island Living. Ask us about visiting Marco Island, share photos, or to feature your business, contact us.

Gopher Tortoise Photos

Enjoy Florida Photo ToursFlorida Photo Tours from Marco Island Living

Gopher Tortoise

Gopher Tortoises in Southwest Florida, Marco Island

Gopher Tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) are iconic reptiles found in the sandy, upland habitats of Southwest Florida, including the beautiful Marco Island. These tortoises play a crucial role in the local ecosystem, creating burrows that provide shelter for numerous other species. Unfortunately, their populations have faced various threats in recent years, making species protection efforts essential. For those interested in observing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, certain viewing tips and guidelines can help ensure a positive experience while minimizing disturbance to the wildlife.

  • Species Overview:
    Gopher Tortoises are terrestrial tortoises known for their robust, dark-brown or grayish shells and stumpy, elephant-like hind legs. They can reach a length of up to 15 inches (38 cm) and can live for several decades, sometimes even exceeding 60 years. These reptiles are considered keystone species, as their burrows provide essential shelters for more than 350 other animal species, including small mammals, insects, and other reptiles.
  • Distribution and Habitat:
    Gopher Tortoises are native to the southeastern United States, including Southwest Florida and Marco Island. They prefer well-drained sandy areas such as pine flatwoods, sandhills, scrub, and coastal dunes. These habitats are vital for their survival, as they dig extensive burrows that help regulate their body temperature and offer protection from predators and environmental extremes.
  • Species Protection:
    Due to habitat destruction, road mortality, and illegal poaching, Gopher Tortoises have faced population declines and are now protected under both state and federal laws. In Florida, they are listed as a Threatened species. To aid in their conservation, the following measures are crucial:
  • Preservation of Habitat: Protecting and preserving the natural habitats where Gopher Tortoises thrive is essential. This involves supporting initiatives to conserve undeveloped lands and avoiding unnecessary fragmentation of their habitats.
  • Road Safety: Implementing measures like wildlife underpasses, fencing, and warning signs can help reduce road mortality among Gopher Tortoises and other wildlife.
  • Avoiding Poaching: Poaching of Gopher Tortoises for the illegal pet trade or other purposes is illegal and harmful to the species’ survival. Report any suspicious activities to local wildlife authorities.

Responsible Viewing Tips:
Observing Gopher Tortoises in their natural environment can be a rewarding experience, but it is essential to do so responsibly to avoid causing stress or harm to these creatures. Here are some guidelines for responsible viewing:

Stay at a Distance: Respect the tortoises’ space and observe them from a distance. Using binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens allows for closer views without disturbing them.

No Touching or Feeding: Never attempt to touch or feed Gopher Tortoises. Human contact can be stressful for them and may transmit harmful bacteria.

Be Quiet and Patient: Loud noises and sudden movements can scare away the tortoises. Stay quiet and patient to increase the chances of observing their natural behaviors.

Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to designated trails and paths to avoid trampling on burrows or fragile habitats.

Gopher Tortoises are a vital component of Southwest Florida’s ecosystem, and observing them in their natural habitat can be a memorable experience. By understanding the importance of their conservation and following responsible viewing guidelines, we can ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate these ancient reptiles on Marco Island and beyond. Let us all play our part in protecting these fascinating creatures for the benefit of the entire ecosystem.

Camera Sale

  • SHOOT DECENT IMAGES WITH EASE - The digital camera captures high-clarity FHD 1080P videos and 44MP photos with the newest CMOS metering system, no need for complicated manual settings while delivering natural color images automatically. One second to press the shutter, it's easy for starters and kids.
  • PORTABLE FOR TRAVEL & NICE BATTERY LIFE - The kids camera is a perfect everyday and take everywhere camera with it's petite body, durable, lightweight and small enough for your pocket. With two large capacity batteries, charging several times can last for one month. Plus, the automatic turn-off setting saves more energy in vacation trips and camping.
  • VERY EASY TO USE - Conducted with ergonomic design, from easy to access buttons to simple functions menu, user-friendly interfaces down to the large LCD display, a 5-13 years kid can easily figure out. Just install the SD card, battery, two seconds to turn it on, and freely capture all fun memories with friends, family.
  • ENCOURAGE CREATIVE - If you are tired of its automatic results, the point and shoot camera allows you to customize pictures. 16X zoom is great for photographing objects in the distance. 20 pcs creative filter effects to take Vintage photos, Black/White photos..., Anti shake, webcam, face and smile detection, continuous shooting, self-timer, waiting for you to explore them.
  • SUPERIOR SUPPORT FOR THIS GIFT - Backed by a one year hassle-free promise- refund and replacement. Digital camera, SD card, lanyard, storage bag, batteries, adapter, cable, exquisite box..., contains everything you need. It is a perfect gift for boys, girls, teens on birthdays, Christmas or any important events, a first real camera for kids who love to take videos and pictures.
  • 【4K 64MP Digital Camera with Flip Screen】:VJIANGER photography camera with 4k 64MP high resolution, 3 inch flip screen,18X digital zoom, built-in fill light, internal microphone and speaker. Ideal gift camera for kids, adult, seniors, students
  • 【Vlogging Camera for Youtube as Webcam】This photo camera not only for taking photos and recording videos, but also as a web camera, which by connecting to PC with the USB cable, choosing the "Camera mode", and equipment with1/4 standard size tripod screw
  • 【Travel Camera with WIFI】:The compact camera is only 9.8 ounce. WiFi connectivity allows you to easily transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing on social media. You can even use app to control your camera remotely
  • 【18X Digital Zoom Camera with Flash】You can press the W/T button to zoom in or out on the subject when recording video and shooting still images. The vlog camera equipped with a built-in flash light, allows taking clear pictures in low light conditions
  • 【Cheap Point and Shoot Camera with Accessories】You can get a 4k ultra hd small camera; 2 batteries; Type-C cable; a camera bag; a lanyard; a user manual. Pefect gift choice for anniversary, Christmas Day, Birthday, Father's Day, Mother's Day, Halloween
  • 16 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
  • 5X Optical Zoom - 28mm Wide Angle Lens
  • 1080P Full HD Video - Vlogging Camera
  • SD Card Compatibility: At least Class 10, no more than 512GB (SD, SDHC, SDXC)
  • 2.7" LCD Screen - Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery
Canon Cameras
  • 4K Ultra HD action camera: Professional 4K30Fps & 2.7K30Fps video with 20MP photos at up to 30 frames per second for incredible photos, which is 4 times the resolution of traditional HD cameras.
  • Smooth Stabilization: Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) delivers steady and smooth videos. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
  • 131ft waterproof camera: AKASO EK7000 is designed to withstand extreme environments, together with durable waterproof case. With the accessories, transform it for indoor and outdoor activities.
  • Wireless wrist remote control sports camera: With a wrist 2.4G remote, you can capture the world in an all-new way. Controlling the camera, framing shots or recording video is convenient. (THE REMOTE IS NOT WATERPROOF)
  • Built-in Wi-Fi & HDMI, edit & share your action in minutes: Just download App(AKASO GO) on your phone or tablet and connect with this action camera. Wi-Fi signal ranges up to 10 meters. MicroSD card is not included.
  • SHOOT DECENT IMAGES WITH EASE - The digital camera captures high-clarity FHD 1080P videos and 44MP photos with the newest CMOS metering system, no need for complicated manual settings while delivering natural color images automatically. One second to press the shutter, it's easy for starters and kids.
  • PORTABLE FOR TRAVEL & NICE BATTERY LIFE - The kids camera is a perfect everyday and take everywhere camera with it's petite body, durable, lightweight and small enough for your pocket. With two large capacity batteries, charging several times can last for one month. Plus, the automatic turn-off setting saves more energy in vacation trips and camping.
  • VERY EASY TO USE - Conducted with ergonomic design, from easy to access buttons to simple functions menu, user-friendly interfaces down to the large LCD display, a 5-13 years kid can easily figure out. Just install the SD card, battery, two seconds to turn it on, and freely capture all fun memories with friends, family.
  • ENCOURAGE CREATIVE - If you are tired of its automatic results, the point and shoot camera allows you to customize pictures. 16X zoom is great for photographing objects in the distance. 20 pcs creative filter effects to take Vintage photos, Black/White photos..., Anti shake, webcam, face and smile detection, continuous shooting, self-timer, waiting for you to explore them.
  • SUPERIOR SUPPORT FOR THIS GIFT - Backed by a one year hassle-free promise- refund and replacement. Digital camera, SD card, lanyard, storage bag, batteries, adapter, cable, exquisite box..., contains everything you need. It is a perfect gift for boys, girls, teens on birthdays, Christmas or any important events, a first real camera for kids who love to take videos and pictures.
  • 【4K 64MP Digital Camera with Flip Screen】:VJIANGER photography camera with 4k 64MP high resolution, 3 inch flip screen,18X digital zoom, built-in fill light, internal microphone and speaker. Ideal gift camera for kids, adult, seniors, students
  • 【Vlogging Camera for Youtube as Webcam】This photo camera not only for taking photos and recording videos, but also as a web camera, which by connecting to PC with the USB cable, choosing the "Camera mode", and equipment with1/4 standard size tripod screw
  • 【Travel Camera with WIFI】:The compact camera is only 9.8 ounce. WiFi connectivity allows you to easily transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing on social media. You can even use app to control your camera remotely
  • 【18X Digital Zoom Camera with Flash】You can press the W/T button to zoom in or out on the subject when recording video and shooting still images. The vlog camera equipped with a built-in flash light, allows taking clear pictures in low light conditions
  • 【Cheap Point and Shoot Camera with Accessories】You can get a 4k ultra hd small camera; 2 batteries; Type-C cable; a camera bag; a lanyard; a user manual. Pefect gift choice for anniversary, Christmas Day, Birthday, Father's Day, Mother's Day, Halloween
Nikon Cameras
  • SHOOT DECENT IMAGES WITH EASE - The digital camera captures high-clarity FHD 1080P videos and 44MP photos with the newest CMOS metering system, no need for complicated manual settings while delivering natural color images automatically. One second to press the shutter, it's easy for starters and kids.
  • PORTABLE FOR TRAVEL & NICE BATTERY LIFE - The kids camera is a perfect everyday and take everywhere camera with it's petite body, durable, lightweight and small enough for your pocket. With two large capacity batteries, charging several times can last for one month. Plus, the automatic turn-off setting saves more energy in vacation trips and camping.
  • VERY EASY TO USE - Conducted with ergonomic design, from easy to access buttons to simple functions menu, user-friendly interfaces down to the large LCD display, a 5-13 years kid can easily figure out. Just install the SD card, battery, two seconds to turn it on, and freely capture all fun memories with friends, family.
  • ENCOURAGE CREATIVE - If you are tired of its automatic results, the point and shoot camera allows you to customize pictures. 16X zoom is great for photographing objects in the distance. 20 pcs creative filter effects to take Vintage photos, Black/White photos..., Anti shake, webcam, face and smile detection, continuous shooting, self-timer, waiting for you to explore them.
  • SUPERIOR SUPPORT FOR THIS GIFT - Backed by a one year hassle-free promise- refund and replacement. Digital camera, SD card, lanyard, storage bag, batteries, adapter, cable, exquisite box..., contains everything you need. It is a perfect gift for boys, girls, teens on birthdays, Christmas or any important events, a first real camera for kids who love to take videos and pictures.
  • 【4K 64MP Digital Camera with Flip Screen】:VJIANGER photography camera with 4k 64MP high resolution, 3 inch flip screen,18X digital zoom, built-in fill light, internal microphone and speaker. Ideal gift camera for kids, adult, seniors, students
  • 【Vlogging Camera for Youtube as Webcam】This photo camera not only for taking photos and recording videos, but also as a web camera, which by connecting to PC with the USB cable, choosing the "Camera mode", and equipment with1/4 standard size tripod screw
  • 【Travel Camera with WIFI】:The compact camera is only 9.8 ounce. WiFi connectivity allows you to easily transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing on social media. You can even use app to control your camera remotely
  • 【18X Digital Zoom Camera with Flash】You can press the W/T button to zoom in or out on the subject when recording video and shooting still images. The vlog camera equipped with a built-in flash light, allows taking clear pictures in low light conditions
  • 【Cheap Point and Shoot Camera with Accessories】You can get a 4k ultra hd small camera; 2 batteries; Type-C cable; a camera bag; a lanyard; a user manual. Pefect gift choice for anniversary, Christmas Day, Birthday, Father's Day, Mother's Day, Halloween
  • 4x Optical Zoom - 27mm Wide Angle Lens
  • 16MP CMOS Sensor
  • 1080p Full HD Video - Vlogging Camera
  • SD Card Compatibility: At least Class 10, no larger than 512GB (SD, SDHC, SDXC)
  • 2.7" LCD
Photographers Accessories
  • [3+3 Pack] This product includes 3 pack screen protectors and 3 pack camera lens protectors with Installation Frame. Due to the rounded edge design of the iPhone 16 Pro and to enhance compatibility with most cases, the tempered glass screen protectors was designed to be slightly smaller than the whole phone screen surface, yet still covering the entire display area to provide maximized screen protection.[Not for iPhone 16e/16 6.1 inch, iPhone 16 Pro Max 6.9 inch, iPhone 16 Plus 6.7 inch]
  • Night shooting function: specially designed iPhone 16 Pro 6.3 Inch display camera lens protective film.The camera lens protector adopts the new technology of "seamless" integration of augmented reality, with light transmittance and night shooting function, without the need to design the flash hole position, when the flash is turned on at night, the original quality of photos and videos can be restored.
  • Works For iPhone 16 Pro 6.3 Inch display tempered glass screen protector and camera lens protector. It is 100% brand new,Precise laser cut tempered glass, exquisitely polished, 0.33mm ultra-thin tempered glass screen protector maintains the original response sensitivity and touch, bringing you a good touch experience. Featuring maximum protection from scratches, scrapes, and bumps.
  • Easiest Installation - Please watch our installation video tutorial before installation.Removing dust and aligning it properly before actual installation,enjoy your screen as if it wasn't there.
  • 99.99% High-definition clear hydrophobic and oleophobic screen coating protects against sweat and oil residue from fingerprints,and enhance the visibility of the screen.
  • [Tool for photographer]: It is a Photography Accessories for Canon Nikon SLR Digital Camera. No App to be downloaded. 5 seconds after inserting the memory card and connecting with the iPhone, click 'Photos' APP and find 'Import', then import video and photos from memory card to your iPhone or iPad.
  • [Accessories for iPhone with Dual Card Slots]: This SZHAIYIJIN Memory Card Reader for iPhone Support SD Card and TF Card, Secure Digital (Standard SD/SDHC) and Micro SD(TF) card. Do NOT Support Wi-Fi SD Memory card.
  • [The Female USB Interface]: Lightning to USB adapter has the Female USB Interface is a OTG Camera Adapter for iPhone &iPad, supports Digital camera, SLR Camera, The USB camera adapter does not require an application, and there is no need to remove the camera's memory card. You Can also plug the USB Flash Drive, Card reader, USB Headphone, Electric Guitar, MIDI keyboard, etc. (The maximum current of the peripherals does not exceed 500 mA). Not Support the Printer and Hard disk drive.
  • [Two-way Transfer]: Two-way transfer suitable for iOS 13 -16 device. Import data from SD/TF card to iPhone/iPad, or export the file from iPhone/iPad to SD/TF card. Include Movies, Music, Word, Power point, Excel, PDF, etc.
  • [High Speed Data Transfer]: Support fast transfers standard photo formats, including JPEG, RAW, along with SD and HD video formats, including H.264 and MPEG-4. Easily and quickly transfer photos/videos to device and share images/videos of your camera to social media anywhere.
  • [Universal Compatibility]:The iPhone SD card reader Designed for iPhone between 5 to 14, Not for iPhone 15&16. It Compatible with iPhone 14/14 Plus/14 Pro/14 Pro Max/13/13 mini /13 Pro/ 13 Pro Max / 12/12 mini/12 Pro/12 Pro Max /11/11 Pro/XS/XS Max/XR/ X/8/8 Plus / 7/7 Plus / 6s / 6s Plus / 6/6 Plus / SE /SE2 and iPad Air / Mini / Pro with Lightning Port etc.
  • Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
  • Save time with card offload speeds of up to 190MB/s powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology (Up to 190MB/s read speeds, engineered with proprietary technology to reach speeds beyond UHS-I 104MB/s, requires compatible devices capable of reaching such speeds. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes. SanDisk QuickFlow Technology is only available for 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 400GB, 512GB, and 1TB capacities. 1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes and 1TB=1,000,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
  • Pair with the SanDisk Professional PRO-READER SD and microSD to achieve maximum speeds (sold separately), Compatible with microSDHC, microSDXC, microSDHC UHS-I, and microSDXC UHS-I supporting host devices
  • Up to 130MB/s write speeds for fast shooting (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
  • 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) (Compatible device required. Full HD (1920x1080), 4K UHD (3840 x 2160), and 5K UHD (5120 X 2880) support may vary based upon host device, file attributes and other factors. See HD page on SanDisk site. UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) designates a performance option designed to support real-time video recording with UHS-enabled host devices. Video Speed Class 30 (V30), sustained video capture rate of 30MB/s, designates a performance option designed to support real-time video recording with UHS-enabled host devices. See the SD Association’s official website.)
  • Rated A2 for faster loading and in-app performance (A2 performance is 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS. Results may vary based on host device, app type and other factors)
  • Versatile 62'' Phone Tripod: Sensyne's updated tripod combines the function of phone stand with a selfie stick. Perfect for taking selfies, Photographers, Youtube, vlogging, live streaming and Family Gathering
  • Adjustable Height and Perfect Angle: With the maximum height of 62inches, it can meet the demands for varied photography heights. 360 degrees rotation gives you flexibility for best viewing angle. Vertically or horizontally
  • Wide Compatibility: The universal phone holder is compatible with all cellphone between 2.8" to 5.7". With a universal 1/4" screw mount is applicable for most digital cameras, action camera, webcam and camcorder
  • What You Get: 1X Phone Stick Tripod; 1X Universal Phone Holder; 1X Adapter; 1X Wireless Remote Shutter. We will provide professional after-sales for 12 months. Please contact us anytime if any question
  • 【USB 3.0 + USB C】 Both interfaces support high-speed data transfer up to 5 Gbps, allowing you easily transfer 1G files in seconds. Dual Card Slots, support SDXC, SDHC, SD, MMC, RS-MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD and Micro SDHC cards from Camera/ Gopro/ Dash Cam/ Surveillance camera. Backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1. * Memory cards shown in images are not included in the product.
  • 【Double duty】 Simultaneously reading and writing on two cards to save the constant plugging and pulling of plugs. Enjoy fast photo downloads, smooth video editing and fast 3D Printer file transfers. Double your productivity with simultaneous microSD/SD card access. View recordings of your security cameras, wildlife monitors, private surveillance cameras and car monitors instead of bringing them home to you.
  • 【Plug and Play】uni Card Reader for camera memory card has handy covers at both ends to keep out liquid and dust. Its slim profile makes it easy to store in your camera bag or backpack, and the useful cord keeps it from getting lost and provides convenient access to micro/SD cards when needed. No driver is required in Windows 11/10/8/7/Vista or Mac OS X 10.2 and later. No additional power supply is required.
  • 【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, MacBook Pro (2023~2016), MacBook (2022~2015), iMac Pro (iMac), Acer Aspire Switch 12S/R13, Predator 15/17X, XPS 13/15/17, Alienware 13/15/17, Spectre x360, Microsoft Surface Pro, Book 2, Razer Blade 15/Stealth 13/Pro 17, Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro, S23/ S22 Ultra/ S21/ S20 and most other USB-C / A devices.
  • 【No Camera Software Required】uni high speed Memory Card Reader connects directly to your Android phone's USB-C port, allowing you to instantly view your footage and manage photo videos without the need for additional apps or Wi-Fi connections. Share your experiences in real-time and never miss an exciting moment again! uni Micro SD USB Adapter with 24/7 customer service and hassle-free 18-month warranty. Please rest assured we stand behind our products and customers.

Contact Us | Marco Island Living Store


Marco Island Weddings



JW Marriott Rates & Availabilities

Fun | Dining | Eco Tours | Fishing

Real Estate | Rentals

Resorts | Pet Friendly