The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is a large freshwater turtle species. It is the largest freshwater turtle in North America and one of the heaviest freshwater turtles in the world. Its common name is derived from its powerful jaws and the distinct ridges on its shell, which resemble the ridged skin of an alligator. This article delves into the dietary habits of these fascinating reptiles, drawing from various sources to provide a comprehensive overview.
Natural Habitat and Physical Characteristics
Alligator snapping turtles are native to the southeastern United States, typically inhabiting freshwaters that flow into the Gulf of Mexico. These turtles are not usually found in isolated wetlands or ponds, they prefer places with canopy cover, overhanging trees, shrubs, dead submerged trees, and beaver dens. Characterized by a large, heavy head and a long, thick shell adorned with three dorsal ridges of large scales (osteoderms), they bear a resemblance to armored ankylosaurs.
Their coloration is typically a solid gray, brown, black, or olive-green, often covered with algae, which aids in camouflage. Radiating yellow patterns around the eyes further disrupt their outline, enhancing their ability to blend into their surroundings. Adult alligator snapping turtles generally range in carapace length from 35 to 80.8 cm (13.8 to 31.8 in) and weigh from 8.4 to 80 kg (19 to 176 lb). Males are typically larger than females.
Dietary Habits in the Wild
Alligator snapping turtles are opportunistic feeders, known to be almost entirely carnivorous. Their diet includes both live prey and scavenged dead organisms. They are known to eat almost anything they can catch. Their diet consists primarily of fish, mollusks, carrion, and amphibians. They also consume a variety of plant matter. A study of 65 turtles found that 56% of their diet by volume was composed of acorns from water, overcup, and willow oaks. Fish were the most frequently eaten food item, but they only made up 7% of their diet by volume.
These turtles often hunt at night. They may also hunt during the day by sitting quietly at the bottom of murky water, with their jaws open to reveal a worm-shaped appendage on their tongue. This appendage lures prey within striking distance. The mouth is then closed with speed and force.
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Hunting Strategies
The alligator snapping turtle employs a unique hunting strategy. Inside their mouths, a small pink appendage, known as a lure, closely resembles a worm. These turtles will sit very still underwater, blending in perfectly with their surroundings, with their mouths gaping open. The lure on their tongue wiggles around, tempting fish to come close and check out what appears to be a tasty snack. Once within reach, the turtle can then snap its strong jaws shut on the fish.
Dietary Habits in Captivity
In captivity, the diet of alligator snapping turtles should be carefully managed. They should only be fed two to three times a week. Live insects and worms from pet supply stores are common dietary components, along with raw, lean meats like chicken and turkey. Both common and alligator snapping turtles in captivity benefit from supplemental leafy greens.
Care at the North Carolina Zoo
At the North Carolina Zoo’s Cypress Swamp exhibit, the alligator snapping turtles' diet consists primarily of fish. During warmer months (May through October), keepers feed the turtles either herring or trout three days per week. Occasionally, they receive a piece of raw chicken as a special treat. During the colder months, the turtles cease eating, undergoing a period of fasting due to their ectothermic nature.
Additional Dietary Considerations
It is worth noting that snapping turtles exhibit selective habits in their browsing. They demonstrate a distinct preference for meat. The diet of the common snapping turtle is roughly 30% vegetable matter, whereas alligator snapping turtles, being more carnivorous, consume significantly less vegetation.
Conservation Status and Threats
The alligator snapping turtle is currently listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN Red List. The largest threat facing alligator snapping turtles has been uncontrolled wild harvesting for their meat, unique shells and to sell as exotic pets. Because they are large and easy to capture, the turtles' meat is harvested for consumption in domestic and international markets. It was most popular in the 1970s and 1980s for use in canned soup.
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Agriculture in areas that formerly hosted bottomland hardwood forest and streams also impacts alligator snapping turtles. The conversion of these lands into agricultural fields and commercial developments replaces suitable habitat. Riverside developments usurp the turtles by removing nesting sites. Activities in these areas lead to the degradation of aquatic habitats downstream, because agrochemicals, pesticides, silts and other dissolved solids reach the water and are carried downstream. These added inputs alter the pH, turbidity and flow of water in sites well beyond the reaches of human settlements.
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