Florida officials ask public to stop 'saving' gopher tortoises

Wednesday, April 8, 2015, 9:11 AM - Well-meaning people in Florida keep trying to 'rescue' gopher tortoises by placing them in the ocean. There's only one problem: They can't swim very well.

It appears as though people are mistaking the tortoises for sea turtles.

But unlike sea turtles, who have flippers, gopher tortoises have clawed feet, meant for digging burrows and walking on the land.

In one months' time, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) received three separate reports of well-meaning people who have moved the tortoises into the ocean, Mother Nature Network reports.

"Gopher tortoises cannot swim well and can easily drown," the FWC says in a statement.

"Because gopher tortoises often nest in dunes adjacent to sea turtle nesting beaches, correct identification of these terrestrial animals is important before deciding what action, if any, is necessary." 

Animal experts say the reptiles rarely require human intervention. If you come across a turtle or tortoise that appears to be in distress, it's best to call a wildlife official.

Sources: Mother Nature Network | FWC