Florida marks Gopher Tortoise Day April 10 with events and cleanups

FLORIDA — Florida’s 2025 Gopher Tortoise Day is coming up on April 10, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is encouraging residents to take part in protecting this important keystone species.

The gopher tortoise is crucial to Florida’s ecosystems, providing shelter in its burrows to more than 350 other species. Coexisting with these threatened reptiles, found throughout Florida and the Southeast, is said to be vital to preserving their role in the natural environment.

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FWC and its partners are calling on the public to participate in Gopher Tortoise Day activities, whether through educational events, planting tortoise-friendly vegetation, or organizing community clean-ups. The agency’s website offers ideas for how individuals, schools, and local governments can take part.

Yellow road sign reading “Gopher Tortoise Crossing” — A road sign warns drivers to watch for gopher tortoises crossing the area. (File photo)

Florida's Gopher Tortoise Day outreach activity — Floridians are encouraged to participate in Florida’s Gopher Tortoise Day by doing such things as highlighting the gopher tortoise at a wildlife appreciation festival by hosting on-site activities, setting up a booth or table, and distributing brochures and information. (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)

The public is also encouraged to share their support on social media using the hashtag #GopherTortoiseDay and to visit the Florida Gopher Tortoise Day website for free resources and additional ways to contribute throughout the year.

Local governments can also get involved by passing resolutions recognizing Gopher Tortoise Day. Copies of any proclamations can be sent to GTEvents@MyFWC.com for inclusion in state recognition efforts.

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Gopher Tortoise Day is part of a broader state effort to promote coexistence with native wildlife and preserve biodiversity through community engagement and education.