Biography
The alligator snapping turtle is the largest freshwater turtle in North America. Primitive in appearance, it can be recognized by its large, heavy head, and the three rows of spiky ridges along its massive shell. It is sometimes confused with the common snapping turtle, which is smaller in size with a much smoother shell. Well-camouflaged under water, this algae-covered turtle is both a scavenger and an active hunter. Lying in wait with its mouth open, it uses a pink worm-like lure on its tongue to entice fish. Frogs, crayfish, snakes, mollusks, plant material, smaller turtles, and alligators are also eaten. An alligator snapping turtle is highly aquatic, emerging from water only for nesting or occasional basking.
Our Animal's Story
Our alligator snapping turtle came to ZooAmerica in 2021 from the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri. Her estimated hatch date is May of 2014. She was found in the River des Peres in St. Louis and was thought to be an intentionally released pet. She could not be returned to the wild.
