Species Reptiles & AmphibiansAlligator Snapping Turtle

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Macrochelys temminckii

UncommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
Safety note: Powerful bite — do not handle

The Alligator Snapping Turtle is the largest freshwater turtle in North America, reaching over 200 pounds. It uses a worm-like tongue lure to attract fish. Found in deep rivers and lakes of the southeastern U.S.

Habitat
Deep rivers, lakes, and reservoirs in the Southeast
Diet
Fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and aquatic vegetation
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Alligator Snapping Turtle

The best time to see a Alligator Snapping Turtle is February–July, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 746 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Alligator Snapping Turtle sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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