Common Snapping Turtle
Common Name: Common Snapping Turtle
Scientific Name: Chelydra serpentina
Names: N/A
Locations: N/A
Diet
Common Snapping Turtles are omnivores, feeding on a diet consisting of fish, amphibians, insects, crustaceans, small mammals, and aquatic plants.
Average lifespan
In the wild, Common Snapping Turtles typically live around 30 to 50 years, though they may live longer with proper care and protection from predators and human activities.
Size
Common Snapping Turtles are large freshwater turtles, with adults reaching carapace lengths of up to 20 to 36 centimeters (8 to 14 inches) on average.
Weight
Adult Common Snapping Turtles can weigh anywhere from 4.5 to 16 kilograms (10 to 35 pounds), with females generally being larger and heavier than males.
About
Common Snapping Turtles are native to North America, ranging from southern Canada down to Florida and westward to the Rocky Mountains. They inhabit various freshwater habitats including ponds, lakes, rivers, and marshes, where they can find suitable food and basking sites.
Size and behavior
Common Snapping Turtles have large, muscular bodies and powerful jaws, with a distinctive hooked beak. They have a rough, keeled carapace and a long, thick tail. They are predominantly aquatic but may venture onto land to bask or lay eggs. Common Snapping Turtles are known for their aggressive behavior and defensive nature, capable of delivering powerful bites when threatened.
Diet and nutrition
Common Snapping Turtles are opportunistic feeders and will consume a wide variety of prey items. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of fish, insects, crustaceans, small mammals, and aquatic plants. Providing a varied diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients for growth, shell development, and overall health.
Conservation status
The conservation status of Common Snapping Turtles varies by region but is generally of least concern. While they may face localized threats from habitat loss, pollution, road mortality, and over harvesting for food and the pet trade in some areas, they are still relatively abundant and widespread throughout their range. However, like many freshwater turtle species, they may be impacted by habitat destruction, pollution, and human activities.
Fun fact
Common Snapping Turtles are known for their long lifespans and ability to survive in diverse habitats. They are also one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America, with individuals occasionally reaching sizes exceeding 18 inches in carapace length and weighing over 35 pounds. Despite their aggressive reputation, Common Snapping Turtles play an important ecological role as scavengers and predators, helping to maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Call or visit your local Reptilia Facility to learn how you can adopt one of these amazing reptiles.
