Gopher tortoise

Gina Chavis and Alex Medlin Refuge Changes That Will Increase the Gopherus Polyphemus Population Introduction In recent times, many species are rapidly decreasing in population size, and scientists believe that we are going through the biggest and most rapid mass extinction known to man. The main reason for species demise is habitat loss due to human encroachment on land. One species greatly affected by habitat loss and other issues is the Gopher Tortoise. In the Endangered Species Act in 1987, Gopher Tortoises were becoming extinct because of extensive population declines (Jones & Dorr, 2004).