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Abstract
The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a keystone fossorial species experiencing severe population declines due to increasing human urbanization. Changes in habitat quality affects burrow environment, structure, and tortoise movement patterns. My objectives were to 1) assess the effects of soil texture on burrow structure, 2) examine burrow site selection at two sites in southwestern Georgia, and 2) investigate the effects of fencing on gopher tortoise movement. I collected soil texture samples, vegetation cover estimates, and tracked gopher tortoises using modified low-cost GPS loggers. Soil texture affected burrow structure and site selection but did not influence burrow environment, suggesting a tolerance for a wider gradient of habitat conditions. Gopher tortoise movement patterns were influenced by fencing presence, creating home ranges with a higher degree of overlap although we saw no difference in size. These results inform management decisions and demonstrate behavioral changes in the presence of anthropogenic structures.