FGCU Research Study Supports CCWT

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Ground breaking research conducted by Dr. John Herman and his team at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has confirmed what conservationists in Cape Coral have long believed: urban gopher tortoise populations in Cape Coral are a self-sustaining, viable conservation unit. The study, published in Southeastern Naturalist (Vol. 22, Issue 2),  underscores the critical importance of local efforts to preserve land for native species.

This research directly supports our mission at Cape Coral Wildlife Trust—to protect wildlife habitat through land preservation. Dr. Herman has publicly stated his endorsement of our efforts, saying he “fully supports and encourages the establishment of a land trust of current vacant lots for the conservation of gopher tortoises specifically, and wildlife in general.”

WHY GOPHER TORTOISES MATTER TO CAPE CORAL CONSERVATION

The gopher tortoise is classified as a keystone species, meaning its presence supports an entire ecosystem. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Biologist Rachel King, “If they disappear from the environment, the ecosystem will collapse on itself.”

Their deep burrows don’t just shelter tortoises—they provide essential refuge for more than 350 other species, including:   Burrowing Owls, Coyotes, Snakes, Foxes, Mice, and many more.
 

These burrows offer protection from heat, fire, predators, and other threats, making gopher tortoise habitat preservation a direct investment in Cape Coral’s broader biodiversity.

ABOUT THE RESEARCH TEAM

This important research was made possible by the work of FGCU researchers: Dr. John Herman, Dr. Charles W. Gunnels, Matthew Metcalf, Jade Johnson, Alexandra Cooper, and Alexander Marsh.
 

Their work gives scientific backing to the conservation strategies that organizations like ours—and our partners—have been implementing for years.

SUPPORTING WILDLIFE THROUGH LAND PRESERVATION

This study reaffirms the urgency of our mission: to acquire and protect vacant lots across Cape Coral through our nonprofit land trust. These spaces are vital not only for the gopher tortoise, but also for burrowing owls and dozens of other native species that depend on undeveloped land to survive.

Every acre we protect is a step toward preventing species decline and ensuring that Cape Coral conservation efforts leave a lasting legacy. Learn how you can support land preservation or donate property today  👇