The fate of this species still appears unclear. We know there are many factors
working against this strange and wonderfully unique reptile that are related to
the encroachment of man. Some of which are simply not fixable and some that
present a huge burden to overcome.
While the species has a rather large range
throughout the Gulf drainage its numbers have been reduced significantly. My
interest in the alligator snapping turtle began over forty years ago. Getting
people involved through awareness and education is my primary goal now.
This
video reflects my current assessment and opinions after many years of gathering
information. Inspiring others to carry the torch in the years to come is
essential to the species survival given the current circumstances. Individuals
can do great things but numbers of individuals can create a movement.
It is
my sincere hope to inspire some of these individuals. So that they can make a
difference and affect this turtles future in a way that betters all of us.
After watching the video periodically check my site @ www.turtleman.com
for the latest information and news regarding our efforts to make a difference
for AMERICAS REPTILE TREASURE.
Click Here to Order our DVD!
THE LOGGERHEAD FILES
ALLIGATOR SNAPPING TURTLES FACTOIDS
Alligator Snappers are the largest freshwater turtle in North America. Verifiable Record is 247lbs.
They do no lay eggs every year. Rather every other and sometimes every third year.
Average Clutch Size: 28 to 32 Eggs
The species is far less agressive than its cousins the common snapper. Far more powerful bite however.
Species not able to colonize by land. Restricted to movement by waterway only. Ranges from Florida Panahandle west tp east texas. north to southeast Kansas and back east to southwest Indiana. Mississippi basin being the heart of the range.
Large specimens can go over one year without feeding with marginal weight loss.
As many as four / fifths of this species have been removed from the wild for food.
Upwards of 90% of nests are predated by raccoons and other predators. Fire ants continue to plague any ground nesting fauna at an increasing rate.
The Alligator snapping turtle is protected in every state it occurs in from commercial trapping.
Long range prognosis for recovery is poor. Without State intervention of captive bred well started yearlings restoration to former status is highly improbable.
