Listing
Dec 30, 1982
- Publication type: CNOR
The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is the largest freshwater turtle in the United States. This hulking, dinosaur-like turtle lurks along the bottom of waterways in the Midwest, Southeast, and some parts of the Southwest. It is a member of the Chelydridae family ofturtles, which includes the common snapping turtle of the order Chelydra. People often mistake the common snapping turtle for the alligator snapping turtle, but the alligator snapping turtle stands out due to its prehistoric appearance and massive size.
Commercial harvesting in the late 1960s and 1970s caused a significant decline in alligator snapping turtle populations across its historic range. At one point, people harvested three to four tons of alligator snapping turtles per day from Flint River, Georgia. Commercial harvest of alligator snapping turtles is against the law in all states within its range. However, Mississippi and Louisiana allow recreational harvest with some restrictions.
Despite efforts to end commercial harvest, illegal harvest poses a threat to the species due to the global demand for pet turtles and turtle meat. In 2017, three men were convicted of illegally collecting 60 large alligator snapping turtles in a single year and transporting them across state lines in violation of the Lacey Act.
Alligator snapping turtles also face threats from incidental harm from fishing and recreational activities. They are at risk of,
Despite their decades-long lifespans, their chances of survival are low before they reach maturity. This makes their populations sensitive to the effects of harvest, especially that of adult females. Surveys conducted in Flint River 22 years after commercial harvest ended showed populations had not recovered.
Both natural and human-caused changes to freshwater habitat in the alligator snapping turtle’s range pose challenges to the alligator snapping turtle’s survival. These include:
Although adult alligator snapping turtles do not have predators other than humans, their nests and young are vulnerable to natural predators.
The phorid fly (Megaselia scalaris) can infest alligator snapping turtle nests. The fly lays its eggs on the ground, and its larvae consume nearby organic material. Scientists have seen evidence of the phorid fly larvae damaging eggs and killing turtle hatchlings.The extent of the threat phorid flies pose on the species is unknown.
Tishomingo and Natchitoches National Fish Hatcheries raise alligator snapping turtles for release into the wild to restore and bolster populations. We have released them in:
Southern Illinois
Oklahoma
Louisiana
Kansas
They are deep brown and often have algae growth, which aids in their camouflage.
Alligator snapping turtles are the largest freshwater turtle species in the United States. Adult males can reach lengths of up to 29 inches and weigh up to 249 pounds. Adult females can reach lengths of up to 22 inches and weigh up to 62 pounds.
Their shells have three rows of spikes giving them a prehistoric appearance. They have a long tail and muscular legs with webbed toes and long, pointed claws. Pointed, fleshy projections surround their eyes on the sides of their huge heads.
The oldest snapping turtle documented in captivity was 80 years old but may live longer in the wild.
The species does not reach sexual maturity until 11 to 21 years. A mature female produces only one clutch each year, ranging from eight to 52 eggs.
Alligator snapping turtles consume a variety of foods. They feed on:
The alligator snapping turtle is the only turtle species that has a part of their body for luring prey. The lure is a small worm-like part of their tongue. This is how it works:
Historic Range:
Current Range:
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