Well hidden on the muddy bottoms of ponds, lakes, and rivers, and camouflaged by underwater plant life, the Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is a patient hunter that snaps at fish, frogs, insects, and humans when provoked.

This species’ introduction to our region has put native animals and plants at risk by over exploiting and unbalancing local ecosystems. They are not social animals but will be aggressive toward other males within their territory.

Did You Know? Snapping Turtles will eat almost anything including carrion, fish, birds, small mammals, amphibians, and aquatic vegetation. They have even been known to kill other turtles by decapitation.

Learn more about the Snapping Turtle at theNAT’s Amphibian and Reptile Atlas of Peninsular California.

PHOTO CREDIT: L. Dakota