Snapping turtles' habits
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The American Snapping Turtle, scientifically known as *Chelydra serpentina*, is also referred to by several common names such as the "Crocodile Turtle," "Small Crocodile Turtle," "Meat Turtle," and "American Snake Turtle." It belongs to the family Chelydridae, commonly known as the Snapping Turtles. Native to North America, this species was introduced to China in 1997 and is now kept in small numbers by farmers in eastern and southern regions. To date, no confirmed reports of artificial breeding have been documented.
These turtles are highly adaptable, thriving in a variety of environments with minimal care. They can survive in both cold and hot climates, hibernating naturally during winter and remaining active in summer. Their strong resistance to disease and rapid growth make them a popular choice for aquaculture.
In terms of appearance, adult snapping turtles can grow up to 47 cm in shell length. Their head is triangular with gray-brown coloring and scattered black spots, and their mouth extends almost to the back of the eyes. The neck is long and pale yellow, while the carapace is short and wide, featuring prominent spines and radial patterns. The plastron is small and pale yellow or white, and the limbs are thick and muscular, allowing them to move quickly on land and in water. Their tail is long and resembles that of a crocodile, with a spine-like structure along its back.
In the wild, these turtles are primarily aquatic, inhabiting lakes, rivers, marshes, and even brackish waters. They are well-camouflaged, often resembling floating debris. During the day, they rest on logs or rocks, sometimes floating on the surface with only their heads exposed. At night, they become more active, moving around in search of food. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide range of plants, insects, fish, amphibians, and small mammals.
Snapping turtles are known for their aggressive behavior, especially as adults. They can bite fiercely if provoked and release a musky odor when disturbed. Males are generally larger than females, with longer tails and distinct genitalia placement. Breeding occurs from April to September, with mating rituals involving climbing and persistent pursuit. Females lay between 11 to 83 eggs annually, typically in nests dug near water edges. The sex of hatchlings is determined by incubation temperature—females develop at higher temperatures (above 30°C), while males emerge from cooler conditions (22–28°C). Hatchlings are small, weighing 9.5 to 12 grams, with dark, rounded shells and sharp spines.