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Snapping Turtle Facts

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Snapping Turtle Facts

The snapping turtle is a freshwater reptile that can grow quite large in some subspecies. The animal gets its name from the powerful jaws it possesses and its aggressive behavior as it snaps at an enemy when threatened.

  1. Size

    • The common snapping turtle can grow as large as 20 inches in length and the average weight of one is around 25 to 30 lbs. But the alligator snapper can weigh more than 200 lbs., making it the world's biggest freshwater turtle.

    Geography

    • The common snapping turtle lives in the eastern 2/3 of the nation, while the alligator snapper's range is throughout the southeastern portion of the country. The habitat of this turtle includes rivers, streams, ponds, swamps and lakes.

    Features

    • A large head with toothless jaws that resemble a beak are characteristics of the snapping turtle. It also has a tail with a saw-toothed ridge on it where it goes into the turtle's shell.

    Diet

    • The snapping turtle is shy and retiring toward people when in the water, where it stays most of the time hunting creatures such as fish, frogs, tadpoles, snakes and ducklings.

    Warning

    • On land, the snapping turtle is more defensive and it will aggressively snap at anyone harassing it. Its jaws might inflict a serious wound if the turtle is able to grab hold of a hand or leg.

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References

  • Photo Credit Morguefile

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