The Alligator Snapping Turtle
Macroclemys temminckii
Photo credit: Gary Stolz USFWS

The Endangered Reptiles of Florida

The Turtles of Florida

Endangered or Threatened Florida Sea Turtles

Endangered or Threatened Florida Freshwater Turtles

The Alligator Snapping Turtle
Macroclemys temminckii

This Turtle is listed at IUCN as threatened,

and Endangered in several states.

It is found in Florida primarily

in the Panhandle Region.

This Species is the largest of all freshwater

Turtles in the United States, with unverified

reports of them weighing over 400 pounds,

although their average weight is

normally about 175 pounds.

They range in length from 16-32 inches,

with males usually being larger than females.

The bite of the Alligator Snapping Turtle,

which is its best weapon, is quite

 strong and they should be considered as

being formidable when they are handled.

Shy and elusive, this Turtle prefers to wait

at the bottom of murky waters for it meals.

Carnivores as young, the Alligator Snapping

Turtles at adulthood become omnivores.

Their lifespan can be up to 150 years

in the wild and from 20-70 years in captivity.

This unique Turtle has an almost Dinosaur like

appearance, with the suggestion of a primeval

creature that time has forgotten.

It is without logic that this particular

Species of Turtle can be kept as pets or eaten.

Places to learn more:

The Alligator Foundation

About Alligator Snapping Turtles

Arkive

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Tortuga Gazette

The Alligator Snapping Turtle

University of Florida

Turtles and Aquatic Plants

USGS

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Walking with the Alligators

Write to Gator Woman

gatorwoman3 at centurylink.net