The Mojave Desert tortoise is one of the most recognizable species in Washington County and an important part of the Mojave Desert ecosystem. Through this community science project, community members help contribute valuable observations that support conservation and long-term habitat management across Washington County and surrounding areas.
Whether you are hiking, biking, climbing, off-roading, birdwatching, or simply enjoying time outdoors, your observations can help us better understand where tortoises are active and how they are using the landscape.
Community Observations in Action
Tracking the growing number of unique tortoise reports submitted by community members across Washington County.
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Tortoise Etiquette
- Give Tortoises Space
- Avoid approaching a desert tortoise. Observe quietly from a safe distance to avoid causing stress or disrupting natural behavior. We recommend at least 8 feet of space!
- Avoid Handling Tortoises, unless the Tortoise is in life threatening danger, such as being on a roadway.
- If a tortoise is in danger on a road:
- Move it safely in the direction it was already traveling
- Keep handling brief and gentle
- Never take a tortoise home or relocate it elsewhere
- Unnecessary handling can cause stress, disrupt natural behavior, and in some cases lead to serious health impacts or death.
- If a tortoise is in danger on a road:
- Stay on Designated Trails
- Staying on designated trails helps protect fragile desert habitat and reduces disturbance to tortoises and their burrows.
- Keep Dogs Leashed
- Even friendly dogs can injure or stress tortoises and other wildlife.
- Never Release Pet Tortoises
- Released pets can spread disease and harm wild tortoise populations.