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CAUTION: Post Storm Damage to Coastal Trail
The Presidio Coastal Trail segment just north of the Pacific Overlook and adjacent to Lincoln Blvd remains CLOSED indefinitely. We have posted signage to alert bicyclists and hikers and with information for safe trail alternatives. More »
Valley Pocket Gopher
A gopher inspects its surroundings in the dunes near Crissy Marsh.
Will Elder, NPS
Natural History: This species is also know as Botta's Pocket Gopher. It is a solitary animal that inhabits subterranean tunnels in moist soil. It is active throughout the year, both during the day and night. This species subsists on roots, tubers, and certain aboveground plants. It breeds from November to April. General Distribution: In the Presidio, the Pocket Gopher is found in areas of of annual and serpentine grassland, coastal and dune scrub, forests, and in lawns. Frequency: This species is abundant in the Presidio and provides an important food resource for birds of prey, and carnivorous mammals. Identifying Characteristics: The pocket gopher is typically between 120 to 180 mm in length. It has large, exposed, yellow, incisor teeth. It is very variable in size and color but generally takes on a brown to black coloration. Another identifying characteristic is a single indistinct groove near the inner border of each incisor. |
Did You Know?
The National Cemeteries Act was based on the principles articulated by President Lincoln in his Gettysburg Address--"that these dead shall not have died in vain." Passed by Congress in 1863, the law established thirteen cemeteries to inter veterans of the Armed Forces and their families.