Experts talk about gopher tortoise threats amid endangered status from wildlife group

Fifteen gopher tortoises are being treated at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) on Sanibel Island as experts warn that human interaction and habitat loss are threatening the species' survival. “They all have different personalities, and they're just fun to watch,” said Barb Lasky, a volunteer with CROW. Lasky said she volunteers to help ensure future generations can admire the gopher tortoise, but noted that risks, such as vehicle collisions, often hinder conservation efforts. “This one was probably hit by a car, came in with a cracked shell right here, and actually has been here since last November," Lasky said, referring to one of the tortoises under care. "Eight months in and you can see the shell is healing." The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has reported that gopher tortoises face a high risk of extinction, with their population declining by 80% over the last 120 years. The organization found that human encroachment on their habitats is a significant factor in this decline. “Their burrows provide homes and shelter for another 200-plus species,” said Alison Charney Hussey, executive director of CROW. “You may just see them as a cute gopher tortoise. We see them as ecological homemakers.” Experts said there are simple actions people can take to help protect the species. For instance, checking underneath your car before driving off can prevent accidental harm. “Stop and help them across the road, you know, the direction they're going,” Lasky said. “It's important to have the wildlife around.” In Florida, the gopher tortoise is listed as a threatened species by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The IUCN’s designation of the species on its Red List has contributed to this status, which provides the highest level of protection the state can offer. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.