Desert Tortoise

The desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a seldom-seen inhabitant of the desert. The tortoise’s potential habitat range extends east from the microphyll woodland, which borders the east side of the dunes. If you find a tortoise in the desert, respect its privacy and space. You may take pictures and observe it, but do not touch or harass the animal. If you find a dead or live tortoise, don’t collect it.  Call the El Centro Field Office at 760-337-4400 with the general location, GPS coordinates (if available), your contact information, and whether it was alive or dead. Report any vandalism, harassment, or collecting to the El Centro Field Office or the California Department of Fish and Game’s “CalTip” number: 1-800-952-5400. For more information, contact the El Centro Field Office or the California Turtle and Tortoise Club at http://www.tortoise.org.