Snapping Turtles: The Complete Guide To Feeding, Training, Breeding, Interaction, Housing, Health An

Snapping turtles are one of the most fascinating and ancient turtle species, distinguished by their powerful jaws, unusual appearance, and menacing temperament. Despite their rather aggressive image, they may make interesting and rewarding pets for dedicated and knowledgeable reptile owners. Let's take a deeper look at snapping turtles, get an overview of the various species, and learn about their natural environment and habits.

What are snapping turtles?

Snapping turtles are members of the Chelydridae family, which includes two common species: the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) and the alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii). These turtles are recognized for their muscular, prehistoric appearance, which includes huge heads, strong jaws, long tails, and spiked shells. Snapping turtles' main distinguishing attribute is their powerful bite, which is capable of breaking through bones and other difficult materials.

Snapping turtles are predominantly freshwater turtles that live throughout North America, particularly in the United States and parts of Canada. These turtles can live for decades, often reaching 40 to 70 years old in captivity with proper care, and are noted for their resilience and adaptability. They are solitary by nature and spend the most of their life beneath, only rising to breathe, bask, or lay eggs.

Species Overview

While snapping turtles share many characteristics, their two main species, Chelydra serpentina (the common snapping turtle) and Macrochelys temminckii (the alligator snapping turtle), differ significantly in appearance, behavior, and habitat choice.

1. The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina):
- This species is ubiquitous in North America and can be found in a range of freshwater settings.
- It has a rough, ridged shell, but not the strongly spiked appearance of the alligator snapping turtle.
- Common snapping turtles are normally smaller than alligators, with shell lengths of 10-18 inches and weights ranging from 10-35 pounds, though some can grow larger in captivity.
- They are more active hunters, using a combination of ambush and active foraging to obtain prey such as fish, insects, amphibians, and plants.

2. Alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii):
- Alligator snapping turtles live mostly in the southeastern United States, where they prefer slow-moving rivers, lakes, and swamps.
- They are substantially larger, with some individuals weighing up to 200 pounds with shells measuring 26 inches or more.
- This species is known for its striking, spiked shell and a peculiar pink, worm-like appendage in its mouth that it employs as a bait to entice prey. These turtles are more passive hunters, resting stationary on river or lake bottoms with their jaws open to catch fish.
- Because of its size, food needs, and habitat requirements, the alligator snapping turtle is regarded more difficult to care for as a pet.