ALLIGATOR SNAPPING TURTLE

Macrochelys temminckii

The Alligator Snapping Turtle is a large species of turtle found in the Southeast US. They are powerful hunters and can inflict a bite capable of breaking bones. Their jaws are triangular and sharp. The jaw protrudes upward at the front. This may help the Turtle lock onto prey. They have a reputation for being extremely aggressive, although; they rarely bite unless it is being attacked. If it feels threatened, or has been picked up, it will simply sit with its mouth open as a warning. There is a safe way to pick up snapping turtles. Place your right hand on the front of the carapace and place the left hand on the edge near the tail. Hold the turtle’s head away from your body, this lowers the risk of being bitten due to the turtle’s low neck range.