Alligator Snapping Turtle
Scientific nameMacrochelys temminckii
Conservation status (IUCN)
Endangered
Named for their alligator-like appearance, this large freshwater species, the Alligator Snapping Turtle inhabits rivers and swamps in Southeastern USA, snapping their mouth shut on prey lured by their worm-like tongues.
Sydney
Visitor tips for Sydney
You can see an Alligator Snapping Turtle in ARC.
Fun facts about Alligator Snapping Turtles
70yrs
Alligator Snapping Turtles can live anywhere from 20-70 years.
Where they're found
Native to the river systems and swamps of the southeastern United States.
What they eat
Generalist carnivore and scavenger, eating almost anything it can catch.
80cm
Alligator Snapping Turtles can have shells up to 80cm long.
60
Alligator Snapping Turtles can lay between 10-60 eggs in a clutch.
90kgs
They can weigh up to 90kgs!
70yrs
Alligator Snapping Turtles can live anywhere from 20-70 years.
Where they're found
Native to the river systems and swamps of the southeastern United States.
What they eat
Generalist carnivore and scavenger, eating almost anything it can catch.
80cm
Alligator Snapping Turtles can have shells up to 80cm long.
60
Alligator Snapping Turtles can lay between 10-60 eggs in a clutch.
90kgs
They can weigh up to 90kgs!
Did you know?
We bet you didn't know these facts about this Alligator Snapping Turtle.
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Oh snap!
The Alligator Snapping Turtle is named for its Alligator-like appearance and snapping motion it makes when catching prey.
Built-in bait
Alligator Snapping turtles use the red worm-shaped appendage on their tongue as a lure to draw fish towards their mouth!
Top of the food chain
Alligator Snapping Turtles are an apex predator, meaning no other animal can eat them as adults. They're at the top of the food chain!
