A History of Desert Tortoise Research at Saguaro National Park

Desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii) occur in both the Rincon Mountain District and Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. Tortoises have been called “walking saguaros” because both are long-lived and found on rocky desert slopes. Desert tortoises are very popular with park visitors. Although tortoises in Arizona are not threatened or endangered (as they are in all other states), they are protected and considered sensitive. Many recent studies in the park have evaluated the natural history and conservation status of the desert tortoise; indeed, much of what we know about this species in Arizona is based on studies at the park. This report summarizes the results of these studies in anticipation that this information will be valuable for future research and management of this long-lived animal.