Snapping turtles are ancient reptiles found throughout North American freshwater environments, recognized for their distinctive appearance and powerful jaws. They are remarkable creatures that have adapted to a variety of aquatic habitats and play a part in their ecosystems.
How Many Snapping Turtle Species
There are currently three recognized species of snapping turtles. Historically, only two main species were widely acknowledged: the Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) and the Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii). Recent genetic studies have led to the reclassification and recognition of a third distinct species, the Suwannee Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys suwanniensis). This reclassification highlights how ongoing scientific research can refine our understanding of biodiversity. The process involves analyzing genetic markers and morphological differences to determine if populations represent separate evolutionary lineages.
Identifying Snapping Turtle Species
Distinguishing between the three snapping turtle species involves observing key physical characteristics. The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) generally possesses a smoother upper shell, or carapace, which can range from dark brown to black. Its head is relatively large with eyes positioned more dorsally, and it has a less strongly hooked beak compared to its alligator snapping counterparts. The tail of a common snapping turtle is typically long and features a saw-toothed crest along its top.
The Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) presents a more rugged, prehistoric appearance. Its carapace is characterized by three distinct rows of prominent spiked scutes or keels running lengthwise, which are visible even in older individuals. This species has an exceptionally large, triangular head with eyes situated more laterally on the sides. A unique feature of the Alligator Snapping Turtle is a small, worm-like appendage on its tongue, used as a lure to attract prey. It often has an extra row of scales along the edge of its carapace.
The Suwannee Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys suwanniensis) shares many similarities with the Alligator Snapping Turtle, including a large head and a shell with three dorsal ridges. Subtle morphological differences exist, such as a broader and more rounded caudal notch at the rear of its carapace. Genetically, it is distinct from Macrochelys temminckii. This species also possesses the characteristic worm-like tongue lure seen in other alligator snapping turtles.
Where Snapping Turtles Live
The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is widely distributed across North America, ranging from southeastern Canada southwest to the edge of the Rocky Mountains, and extending as far east as Nova Scotia and Florida. These turtles are adaptable, inhabiting a variety of freshwater and even brackish environments, including shallow ponds, streams, lakes, marshes, and estuaries. They are habitat generalists, capable of occupying most permanent bodies of water.
The Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is primarily found in the freshwaters of the southeastern United States. Its range extends from the Florida Panhandle west to East Texas, and north into states like southeastern Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee. These turtles prefer deeper waters within large rivers, canals, lakes, and swamps. They often utilize specific microhabitats that offer structural cover, such as submerged trees, root balls, and undercut banks.
The Suwannee Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys suwanniensis) has a much more restricted native geographic range. It is endemic to the Suwannee River basin, which spans parts of southern Georgia and northern Florida. This species primarily inhabits riparian environments, including the main channels of rivers and their tributaries. They can also be found in associated backwater swamps and oxbow lakes within this specific drainage system.
Snapping Turtle Traits and Behavior
Snapping turtles are largely aquatic, spending most of their lives submerged in water. They are known for their powerful jaws and defensive nature when encountered on land. Unlike many other turtles, they cannot fully withdraw their heads and limbs into their shells, leading them to actively defend themselves by striking forward with their strong, hooked beaks. These turtles can deliver a significant bite, capable of causing painful wounds.
As omnivorous creatures, snapping turtles consume a varied diet, acting as both scavengers and active hunters. Their diet includes invertebrates, fish, frogs, other amphibians, smaller reptiles, birds, and small mammals. A considerable portion of their diet can also consist of aquatic vegetation. Alligator snapping turtles employ a unique ambush hunting strategy, lying motionless on the bottom and wiggling their worm-like tongue lure to attract unsuspecting prey within striking distance.
Snapping turtles typically exhibit a shy temperament in the water, often preferring to flee or hide when approached. They can remain submerged for extended periods, sometimes burying themselves in mud with only their nostrils exposed to breathe. Common snapping turtles can live for 30 to 40 years in the wild, though some estimates suggest longer lifespans. Alligator snapping turtles can live for around 45 years in the wild, with some individuals potentially reaching 70 years or more. These turtles function as apex predators and scavengers within their freshwater ecosystems.