Gopher Tortoise in Critical Danger | Panama City Beach News

Florida’s gopher tortoise, a keystone species whose burrows shelter over 350 other animals, is now classified as critically endangered — a dire warning that rapid development and predators are pushing this ecosystem engineer toward extinction. With bulldozers crushing burrows and dogs and coyotes preying on them, experts urge a 15- to 30-foot buffer around their homes. This isn’t just about saving one tortoise — it’s about preserving an entire web of life. The clock is ticking, and Florida’s natural balance hangs in the balance. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/2632dc47347c98ae