The alligator snapping turtle is one of the largest freshwater turtle species in the world with adults ranging in size from 24-36 inches in carapace (shell) length and weighing upwards of 175 pounds. They are easily recognizable by their large size beak-like mouths and thick ridged shells. Alligator snapping turtles get their name from their powerful jaws and sharp teeth which are capable of inflicting serious damage to both prey and predators.
These turtles are found primarily in slow-moving rivers canals and lakes in the southeastern United States. They are most commonly seen in the states of Louisiana Mississippi Alabama and Florida. Alligator snapping turtles spend the majority of their time in water only emerging to bask in the sun or to lay eggs. When they are basking they often extend their necks and legs out of the shell to soak up the heat.
Alligator snapping turtles are not considered to be social creatures. They are generally solitary animals only coming together to mate. However there have been reports of large groups of alligator snapping turtles congregating in certain areas. These groups usually form around a food source such as a dead animal or a large concentration of fish.
The alligator snapping turtle is a carnivorous creature feeding primarily on fish mollusks and crustaceans. They have been known to eat just about anything they can fit into their mouths including snakes frogs and small mammals. Alligator snapping turtles are ambush predators lying in wait for their prey to swim by before lunging out and grabbing it with their powerful jaws.
Alligator snapping turtles are one of the longest-lived turtle species with some individuals living for over 100 years. These turtles reach sexual maturity at around 20 years of age. Females lay eggs in nests dug into the ground which she covers with vegetation to conceal it. The incubation period for alligator snapping turtle eggs is approximately 90 days.
The alligator snapping turtle is listed as a threatened species in many states due to habitat loss and over-harvesting for the pet trade. These turtles are also popular in the culinary world with their meat considered a delicacy in some cultures. If you encounter an alligator snapping turtle in the wild it is best to leave it alone. These turtles can be dangerous and should only be handled by experienced professionals.
What does an alligator snapping turtle look like?
Alligator snapping turtles have large powerful jaws and a long thick tail.
They are dark brown or black in color and their shell is covered in ridges.
How big do alligator snapping turtles get?
Alligator snapping turtles can grow to be quite large with some individuals reaching lengths of over two feet!
Where do alligator snapping turtles live?
Alligator snapping turtles are found in freshwater habitats throughout the southeastern United States.
What do alligator snapping turtles eat?
Alligator snapping turtles are carnivorous and will eat just about anything they can catch including fish reptiles amphibians and even other turtles!
How long do alligator snapping turtles live?
Alligator snapping turtles can live for many years with some individuals reaching ages of over 50 years old!
What is the shell of an alligator snapping turtle made of?
The shell of an alligator snapping turtle is made of bone and is covered in a hard protective layer of keratin.
How do alligator snapping turtles reproduce?
Alligator snapping turtles generally reproduce during the spring and summer months.
The female will lay a clutch of eggs in a nest on land and the young will hatch approximately two months later.
How many eggs does a female alligator snapping turtle lay?
A female alligator snapping turtle can lay anywhere from 10 to 50 eggs per clutch.
What is the biggest threat to alligator snapping turtles?
The biggest threat to alligator snapping turtles is habitat loss and degradation.
Are alligator snapping turtles endangered?
Yes alligator snapping turtles are currently listed as a threatened species.
What can you do to help alligator snapping turtles?
You can help alligator snapping turtles by supporting conservation efforts and by being careful not to pollute their habitats.
What do baby alligator snapping turtles look like?
Baby alligator snapping turtles are small and brown in color.
They have a soft shell and are not as powerfully built as their adult counterparts.
How long do baby alligator snapping turtles stay with their mother?
Baby alligator snapping turtles usually stay with their mother for the first few years of their life.
How fast do alligator snapping turtles swim?
Alligator snapping turtles are not particularly fast swimmers but they can reach speeds of up to 5 miles per hour in short bursts.
What is the lifespan of an alligator snapping turtle in captivity?
Alligator snapping turtles can live for many years in captivity with some individuals reaching ages of over 50 years old!
