Common Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina

Identification
This large turtle has a rugged shell and a long sawtoothed tail. Its powerful jaws give it a distinctive appearance.

Location
Common statewide

Size
8 to 18 inches

Diet
It feeds on fish amphibians and carrion.

Habitat
It occurs in nearly all aquatic habitats in Ohio.

Activity Period
April to October

Behavior
It is primarily aquatic and rarely leaves water except to nest. It is wary but may defend itself when handled. It is most active in warm months.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay eggs in early summer.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has been widespread in Ohio since early settlement.

Human Interactions
It may bite defensively when threatened.

Facts
It is one of the largest freshwater turtles in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Fish amphibians carrion aquatic animals | Lakes ponds rivers wetlands | Statewide