Gopher tortoises are a nuisance for farmers, but they can also be a problem when they make their way onto residential properties.
How do you get rid of gopher turtles naturally? This article will help answer that question and teach you how to safely relocate them from your yard.
Let’s start!
What is a Gopher Tortoise?
Contents
The gopher tortoise is a large, land-dwelling turtle that can be found in the southern United States.
They are easily identified by their brown shell and yellow markings on their head and neck.
Gopher tortoises spend most of their time underground, digging burrows for shelter and hibernation. These burrows can be quite large and are often mistaken for gopher holes.
While the presence of a gopher tortoise burrow can be a nuisance, it is important to remember that these turtles are a threatened species.
If you have one on your property, it is best to relocate it rather than trying to get rid of it yourself.
Facts About Gopher Tortoises
Gopher tortoises (also known as gopher turtles) can live up to 80 years in the wild.
Unfortunately, these creatures are now listed as threatened due to habitat loss and predation by humans.
The gopher tortoise is a large, herbivorous turtle that can be found in the southeastern United States.
These turtles get their name from the fact that they live in burrows which they excavate themselves and use for shelter from the sun and predators.
Burrows that have been excavated and utilized by other animals in this region provide homes for a broad range of different critters.
Indigo and pine snakes, gopher frogs, diamondback rattlesnakes, and even the burrowing owl are just a few of the creatures that call this area home.
Gopher tortoises are not currently endangered, but they are protected by law in Florida.
This means it is illegal to harm, kill or remove these turtles from the wild.
How To Get Rid Of Gopher Turtles Naturally
There are a few ways to get rid of gopher turtles naturally, without harming them.
One way is to simply fill in their tunnels with dirt or sand so they can no longer use them.
You can also place fencing around the area where they’re digging to keep them out.
If you want to relocate the gopher tortoises, you can try using repellents.
One of the most popular methods is to use mothballs, which irritate the gopher tortoises and make them leave.
You can also try putting some chemicals near the opening of their tunnel, but be sure to read about how to do so safely first.
Another way to get rid of gopher tortoises is to plant food that they like in the area so they will be drawn to it.
Make sure you follow the guidelines for landscaping your property if there are gopher tortoises living there, as this will attract them and keep them safe.
Although they may seem harmless, dogs can actually be a threat to gopher tortoises as they may spend a lot of time inspecting their burrow.
It is also possible for them to get stuck in the tunnel if they do so.
Gopher tortoises need space and privacy, so be on the lookout for any underground activity near your property or where you plan to build something new.
If you notice any activity, it is best to call a professional who can handle the gopher tortoise.
You may also want to consider hiring someone if none of these solutions worked and they’re still causing problems for your property or yard.
Gopher turtles are amazing creatures that will benefit from being around humans as long as we treat them with respect.
Please be sure to read about how to get rid of gopher turtles naturally before taking any action, and always consult an expert if you’re unsure what to do.
Also Read: What Do Centipedes Eat?
What to Do If You Find a Tortoise on the Road?
You’ve been driving down the road, and you see a tortoise on the side of it. What should you do?
Keep in mind that gopher tortoises are most active during mid-day, so this is when they will be crossing roads.
If you have not seen one before – or even if you have – there’s a good chance it’s a gopher tortoise.
These turtles are typically found in dry, sandy habitats and along grassy areas near forests or wetlands.
That being said, these animals will sometimes wander into yards – which is why this situation could arise for your home, too!
If you see a gopher tortoise on the side of the road, it’s important to remember that they are protected by law.
This means that you cannot touch, move, or disturb them in any way.
You also should not attempt to relocate them yourself – this needs to be done by a professional.
Conclusion
If you find a gopher tortoise in your yard, hole, or on the street of your home, it’s important to call animal control immediately.
These animals may be dangerous and could attack if they feel threatened.
You can also try moving them with care by using heavy gloves so that they don’t become agitated.
Keep in mind there are many ways to get rid of these creatures naturally as well before calling an expert for help!
