Alligator Snapping Turtle

The alligator snapping turtle gets its name not just from the strength of its jaws, but from its keeled shell which resembles the scales of an alligator’s back.

The largest freshwater turtle, it rarely leaves the water except to lay eggs.  It is a passive hunter, sitting motionless on the bottom with its mouth open.  Its tongue has a bright red, worm-shaped piece of flesh that lures fish.

HABITATRivers, canals, lakes, swamps
DIETFish, frogs, reptiles, invertebrates
LIFE Expectancy20-70 years