Snapping turtles are common freshwater reptiles recognized by their robust build and distinctive appearance. These aquatic creatures are found across various habitats, from slow-moving rivers to ponds. Understanding their reproductive cycle, particularly when and where they lay their eggs, offers insight into their life history and behavior.
Peak Egg-Laying Season
Snapping turtles typically begin egg-laying in late spring and continue into early summer. This period spans May and June, though it can extend into July depending on local climate and geographical location. The onset of nesting is tied to rising air and soil temperatures. Females emerge from their aquatic environments to find suitable nesting grounds. The egg-laying season can vary in duration based on latitude, with some northern populations laying eggs as late as November.
Nesting Site Selection and Process
A female snapping turtle leaves the water to find a nesting site. She selects areas with loose soil, sand, or gravel, including disturbed locations like road shoulders, garden beds, or natural banks. These sites are elevated to prevent flooding and receive ample sunlight, aiding egg incubation. While typically found near water, a female may travel significant distances, sometimes up to a mile, to locate an ideal spot.
The female digs a flask-shaped cavity, usually 4 to 7 inches deep, using her hind legs. She may urinate to soften hard soil for excavation. Once prepared, she deposits her clutch of creamy white, leathery, spherical eggs, resembling ping-pong balls. A single clutch contains 10 to 100 eggs, typically 20 to 40, depending on the turtle’s size.
The entire egg-laying process can take several hours, during which the female guides the eggs into the nest with her hind feet. After all eggs are laid, she covers the nest with soil, concealing it before returning to the water.
From Egg to Hatchling
Incubation typically lasts 60 to 100 days, though it can range from 55 to 125 days depending on temperature and humidity. Snapping turtle development includes temperature-dependent sex determination, where nest temperature during incubation dictates hatchling sex. Cooler temperatures (around 68°F) tend to produce females. Intermediate temperatures (70-75°F) result in males or a mix. Both very low and very high temperatures can also lead to a higher proportion of females.
Hatchlings emerge from nests in late summer or early fall, between August and October. They use a small projection called an egg tooth to break through their leathery shells. Upon emergence, young turtles begin their journey to find water. In northern climates or unfavorable conditions, hatchlings may overwinter in nests and emerge the following spring.