There are two kinds of snapping turtles in our area, the common snapping turtle and the alligator snapping turtle. However, the only one I’ve ever seen is the common snapping turtle, which I’ve encountered throughout the year, even under the ice at our frozen winter pond, where it was searching for food. It is the only turtle active throughout winter. The other pond turtles become inactive when the weather is cold, but are active again when it warms up, even during winter. Box turtles sleep or brumate (become dormant) during winter. They don’t “wake up” like the pond turtles.
Snapping turtles are the largest freshwater turtles. They have large heads with powerful hooked jaws and a long tail. These primitive-looking turtles have short tempers and will strike viciously if bothered and can inflict serious wounds. The neck is long, and they can stretch a surprising distance. The shell of the common snapper is fairly smooth and often covered with algae or mud. They are frequently seen far from ponds as they move across land from one body of water to another.
Check out the size of the nails on the hind feet of the snapper.
The alligator snapper has a rough, serrated shell, and has a strongly hooked beak. It is by far the largest freshwater turtle in North America, weighing up to 250 pounds. The turtle rarely basks but tends to stay at the bottom of ponds.
Although I’ve searched, I’ve never found an alligator snapping turtle. I’ll keep looking and maybe one day I’ll get lucky.
Snapping Turtle FAQ
Are snapping turtles dangerous?
Snapping turtles can be dangerous if provoked. They have strong jaws and sharp claws that could hurt humans. While they are shy in water and typically try to flee, they become aggressive when threatened on land[1][2].
Can a snapping turtle bite off a finger?
Yes, snapping turtles can potentially bite off a finger. However, they typically only bite when feeling threatened or when someone tries to handle them improperly[1].
What do snapping turtles eat?
Snapping turtles are omnivores. Their diet includes:
- Frogs
- Insects
- Crayfish
- Dead rodents
- Fish
- Ducks
- Aquatic vegetation
The alligator snapping turtle even uses a unique hunting technique, wiggling its tongue like a worm to attract fish[1].
How fast are snapping turtles?
Despite being turtles, they can move surprisingly quickly. They can extend their neck and lunge with unexpected speed, often with their mouth wide open[1].
How can you identify a snapping turtle?
Key identifying features include:
- A mouth that looks like a hooked beak
- A long tail with ridged edges (reminiscent of a dinosaur tail)
- Typically found near or in water[1]
How do you safely handle a snapping turtle?
It’s best to avoid handling snapping turtles. If absolutely necessary:
- Approach from behind
- Place hands near the back third of the shell
- Keep the turtle’s head away from you
- Never pick up a snapping turtle by its tail, as this can cause injury[1]
Where do snapping turtles live?
They prefer slow-moving water with soft, muddy, or sandy bottoms. Adult snapping turtles typically reach 8-12 inches in shell length and can weigh between 10 to 35 pounds[2].
When are snapping turtles most active?
They are most active during breeding season when females leave the water to dig nests and lay eggs. This typically occurs when they need to find suitable nesting locations[2].
Citations:
[1] https://a-z-animals.com/animals/snapping-turtle/
[2] https://portal.ct.gov/deep/wildlife/learn-about-wildlife/snapping-turtle-q-and-a
[3] https://www.fws.gov/press-release/2021-11/faq-alligator-snapping-turtle-proposed-threatened-status
[4] https://www.chelydra.org/snapping_turtle_question_answer.html
[5] https://www.fishlore.com/aquariumfishforum/threads/snapping-turtle-questions.236414/
[6] http://www.turtleforum.com/forum/upload/index.php
