5/26/26 @ 6:00 a.m.
For this week’s Turtle Talk Tuesday, we’re revisiting an important reminder about the differences between sea turtles and gopher tortoises, along with a helpful video from Coastal Connections, Inc..
Many well-meaning animal lovers confuse these species, and unfortunately, that confusion can lead to serious harm. Following recent incidents across Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues to emphasize that gopher tortoises should never be placed in water under any circumstances. Unlike sea turtles, they cannot swim, and placing them in water, especially the ocean, can quickly become fatal.
Gopher tortoises spend the majority of their lives underground in sandy burrows, often found near coastal dune systems. These burrows maintain stable temperatures and humidity year-round, providing critical protection from extreme heat, cold, drought, and fire. They do not live in or rely on water for survival, getting hydration instead from the vegetation they eat and rainfall.
While it is uncommon, a gopher tortoise may occasionally be seen near the water’s edge. This is typically brief behavior related to temperature regulation or removing ticks. If left alone, they will move only as far as needed and return to their burrow habitat on their own. They should never be pushed, carried, or placed into water.
Sea turtles, in contrast, are fully adapted to life in the ocean. They spend most of their lives in saltwater and have long, paddle-like flippers designed for swimming and navigating currents. Their shells are more streamlined and often heart-shaped when viewed from above, allowing efficient movement through the water.
A quick way to tell the difference:
If you encounter any turtle that appears injured or in distress, the best action is to contact FWC so trained professionals can respond appropriately.
Watch the Coastal Connections video here to learn more, and help us share this message to protect Florida’s native wildlife.
-Sabrina Robertson
Communications Officer
For this week’s Turtle Talk Tuesday, we’re revisiting an important reminder about the differences between sea turtles and gopher tortoises, along with a helpful video from Coastal Connections, Inc..
Many well-meaning animal lovers confuse these species, and unfortunately, that confusion can lead to serious harm. Following recent incidents across Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues to emphasize that gopher tortoises should never be placed in water under any circumstances. Unlike sea turtles, they cannot swim, and placing them in water, especially the ocean, can quickly become fatal.
Gopher tortoises spend the majority of their lives underground in sandy burrows, often found near coastal dune systems. These burrows maintain stable temperatures and humidity year-round, providing critical protection from extreme heat, cold, drought, and fire. They do not live in or rely on water for survival, getting hydration instead from the vegetation they eat and rainfall.
While it is uncommon, a gopher tortoise may occasionally be seen near the water’s edge. This is typically brief behavior related to temperature regulation or removing ticks. If left alone, they will move only as far as needed and return to their burrow habitat on their own. They should never be pushed, carried, or placed into water.
Sea turtles, in contrast, are fully adapted to life in the ocean. They spend most of their lives in saltwater and have long, paddle-like flippers designed for swimming and navigating currents. Their shells are more streamlined and often heart-shaped when viewed from above, allowing efficient movement through the water.
A quick way to tell the difference:
- Gopher tortoises: sturdy, elephant-like feet with distinct claws for digging; oblong shell; land-dwelling burrowers
- Sea turtles: long flippers for swimming; smooth, streamlined, heart-shaped shell; ocean-dwelling.
If you encounter any turtle that appears injured or in distress, the best action is to contact FWC so trained professionals can respond appropriately.
Watch the Coastal Connections video here to learn more, and help us share this message to protect Florida’s native wildlife.
-Sabrina Robertson
Communications Officer
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