Snapping turtles are common in North American freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers. They prefer quiet waters with muddy bottoms and abundant vegetation for concealment. Encountering them, especially their young, raises questions about potential risks. This article addresses concerns regarding baby snapping turtles and how to safely interact with them.
Potential Hazards
Even small snapping turtles can pose risks due to their defensive behaviors and the bacteria they carry. When threatened, snapping turtles can quickly snap their jaws shut. A bite from a baby snapping turtle can be painful, breaking the skin and potentially leading to bleeding and infection. Their jaws are designed for cutting, allowing even a small turtle to inflict a wound.
Beyond a bite, all turtles, including hatchlings, can carry Salmonella bacteria. These bacteria are often present on the turtle’s body and in their droppings, even if the animal appears healthy and clean. Humans can contract Salmonella through direct contact with a turtle or its environment, such as touching the turtle and then inadvertently touching their mouth.
Salmonella infection can cause symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. In vulnerable populations like young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, it can lead to severe illness requiring hospitalization. The sale of small turtles with shells less than four inches long has been banned in the United States since 1975 due to the risk of Salmonella transmission, particularly to young children.
Identifying Young Snapping Turtles
Recognizing a young snapping turtle involves observing distinct physical characteristics. Hatchlings are small, typically measuring 1.1 to 1.5 inches (2.9-3.8 cm) in shell length upon emerging from their eggs. Within their first year, common snapping turtle hatchlings can grow to about 3.5 to 5 inches (8.9 to 12.7 cm).
Their shell coloration usually ranges from dark green to brown or black. Young snapping turtles often display pronounced ridges along their shell, which tend to become smoother as they mature. Their tail is often as long as or even longer than their shell, typically adorned with triangular plates or spikes. Their shell also commonly exhibits serrated edges.
Safe Interaction Guidelines
The most effective approach when encountering a baby snapping turtle is to observe it from a safe distance and avoid direct contact. Snapping turtles are defensive rather than aggressive, particularly on land where they feel exposed. If a turtle needs to be moved from a hazardous location, such as a road, always move it in the direction it was already heading to prevent it from attempting to cross again.
When handling is necessary, such as guiding one off a road, never pick a snapping turtle up by its tail, as this can cause severe spinal damage. Instead, hold the turtle by the back sides of its shell, keeping your hands well away from its head due to their long and flexible necks. Wearing thick gloves is recommended for protection.
After any contact with a turtle or its environment, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to minimize Salmonella risk. It is not advisable to keep snapping turtles as pets, especially small ones, given their specific care needs and the inherent Salmonella risk.