Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is a kind of freshwater turtle with an extensive habitat range and considered the most widespread turtle as the name suggests. Physically, it has a large shell of brown color with a tail nearly as long. Considered to be at the top of the food chain in its environment, the Common Snapping Turtle has very few predators and is only the most vulnerable as a hatchling. It is known for its powerful jaw and aggressive disposition, but will only use its strength against potential predators. As such, the Common Snapping Turtle is noted as docile and curious upon encounters with humans.
The Common Snapping Turtle has a carapace length between 8”-14” (20.3-35.6 cm), carapace width of 6.3”-11.4” (16-29 cm), body height of 3.75”-7.1” (9.5-18 cm), and weight in the range of 11-44 lb (5-20 kg). The typical lifespan of the Common Snapping Turtle is between 30-45 years in the wild and 30-70 years in captivity.
The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is a kind of freshwater turtle with an extensive habitat range and considered the most widespread turtle as the name suggests. Physically, it has a large shell of brown color with a tail nearly as long. Considered to be at the top of the food chain in its environment, the Common Snapping Turtle has very few predators and is only the most vulnerable as a hatchling. It is known for its powerful jaw and aggressive disposition, but will only use its strength against potential predators. As such, the Common Snapping Turtle is noted as docile and curious upon encounters with humans.
The Common Snapping Turtle has a carapace length between 8”-14” (20.3-35.6 cm), carapace width of 6.3”-11.4” (16-29 cm), body height of 3.75”-7.1” (9.5-18 cm), and weight in the range of 11-44 lb (5-20 kg). The typical lifespan of the Common Snapping Turtle is between 30-45 years in the wild and 30-70 years in captivity.