Gopher tortoise

Description:

Only about 1.5" long and apparently hatched this year, this little tortoise has bright yellow scales on its forelegs. It's head, with just the tip of the beak visible here, is the same color. If it survives to adulthood, it should grow to 12" or more and will dig burrows that are also used by other Florida wildlife. Classified as a threatened species and protected in Florida.

Habitat:

Found near the edge of the lawn next to a 5-acre scrub.