Support
Need help with Gopher Tortoise Watch? We’re here to help. Whether you’re reporting your first observation, exploring the map, or experiencing a technical issue, you’ll find answers below.
Contact Support
Email: support@gophertortoisewatch.com
We typically respond within 1–2 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
How do I create an account?
Create an account using your email address to begin reporting tortoise and burrow observations.
How do I report a tortoise?
Tap Report a Tortoise, take a photo, answer a few quick questions, and submit your observation.
How do I report a burrow?
Tap Report a Burrow, photograph the burrow entrance and surrounding habitat, answer a few questions, and submit your report.
Why do I need to allow location access?
Location information helps researchers better understand habitat use and population distribution. Public observations display an approximate location to help protect wildlife.
My Observations
Can I edit an observation?
Yes. You can edit your own observations at any time.
Can I delete an observation?
Yes. Observations can be deleted from your My Observations list.
Maps & Privacy
Why can’t I see the exact location of other observations?
To help protect gopher tortoises and their habitat, observation locations are generalized for public viewing. Exact locations are only available to authorized administrators and researchers.
Who can see my observations?
Your observations contribute to the community dataset while protecting sensitive location information.
Community Verification
What does Community Verified mean?
Community Verified observations have been reviewed by multiple users who agree on the species and other key details, improving the quality of the data for research and conservation.
Learn
What can I learn in the app?
Explore information about gopher tortoises, burrows, life stages, habitat, food plants, burrow ecology, and the many species that depend on gopher tortoise burrows.
Technical Support
The app won’t open or keeps crashing.
Make sure you’re using the latest version of the app. If the problem continues, contact support with your device model and operating system.
My photos won’t upload.
Check your internet connection and confirm the app has permission to access your camera and photo library.
The map isn’t loading.
Verify that Location Services are enabled and that you have an internet connection.
I forgot my password.
Use the Forgot Password option on the login screen to reset your password.
Report a Bug
If you’ve found a bug or something isn’t working as expected, please include:
- Device model
- Operating system version
- App version
- Description of the issue
- Screenshot (if available)
Send your report to support@gophertortoisewatch.com.
Feature Requests
Have an idea that could make Gopher Tortoise Watch even better? We’d love to hear it.
Email us at support@gophertortoisewatch.com.
Privacy Policy
View our Privacy Policy.
Terms of Use
View our Terms of Use.
About Gopher Tortoise Watch
Gopher Tortoise Watch is a citizen science platform that empowers communities to help conserve gopher tortoises and the habitats they depend on. Every observation contributes to research, education, and long-term conservation.
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