Wild Neighbors: Snapping Turtle

{In this ongoing series, “Wild Neighbors”, we take a closer look at the wild animals that share our neighborhoods and natural spaces here in Sangamon County. From the skies to the waters, and everything in between, these creatures play vital roles in the ecosystems around us.}

The Snapping Turtle is a prehistoric-looking creature that can be found in many of Sangamon County’s ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. These turtles are known for their large size and powerful jaws, which they use to catch fish, amphibians, and even small mammals. Unlike most other turtles, Snapping Turtles are aggressive and will not hesitate to defend themselves when threatened. Their strong jaws are capable of delivering a painful bite, earning them their reputation as one of the most formidable freshwater turtles in the region.

Snapping Turtles spend most of their time submerged in water, where they hunt and forage for food. They are excellent swimmers and can remain underwater for long periods, often lying motionless on the bottom to ambush prey. On land, they are less graceful, but they are capable of short bursts of speed, especially when they are nesting. During the spring and summer months, female Snapping Turtles leave the water to lay their eggs in sandy or muddy areas. The young hatchlings, once they emerge, must quickly make their way back to the safety of the water.

While Snapping Turtles are well-adapted to life in the wild, they face threats from habitat destruction, road traffic, and pollution. Conservation efforts are important to ensure that these ancient reptiles continue to thrive in local waterways. As top predators in their ecosystems, Snapping Turtles play an important role in maintaining a healthy balance of aquatic life.