Snapping turtles are remarkable creatures that lay eggs in a variety of environments.
Common snapping turtles typically lay 20-50 eggs per clutch, which is relatively small compared to other turtle species.
Female snapping turtles usually dig a hole in a sandy or muddy area, often near water, to lay their eggs.
These eggs incubate for about 80-90 days, depending on the temperature, before they hatch.
Snapping Turtle Facts
Snapping turtles are amazing creatures, and one of the most fascinating things about them is their egg-laying process. Female snappers can store viable sperm for up to three years, so they don't necessarily mate every year prior to laying eggs.
In June, mature female Snapping Turtles leave their ponds in search of a sandy spot to lay their eggs. They're prehistoric-looking reptiles, and once they find a suitable location, they start digging.
The soil needs to be moist and loose for them to dig easily, so if it's dry and tightly packed, they'll urinate on it to make it more manageable. They're slow and methodical in their digging, using their left and right hind feet to scoop up soil and bring it back to the hole.
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A Snapping Turtle can lay anywhere from 20 to 40 eggs in a single nesting session, which can take up to several hours. They carefully cover their eggs with soil and then tamp it down with their plastron, or bottom shell.
It's heartbreaking to learn that 90 percent or more of turtle nests are raided by predators like raccoons, skunks, and crows. Despite all the effort they put into laying their eggs, many Snapping Turtles don't get to see their babies hatch.
Snapping Turtle Care
Snapping turtles require a deep water area in their enclosure, typically at least 6 inches deep, to allow them to fully submerge and regulate their body temperature.
They are carnivores and need a diet rich in protein, including foods like fish, crustaceans, and insects.
In the wild, snapping turtles can live up to 40 years or more, but in captivity, proper care and nutrition can help them reach 80 years or more.
Common Misconceptions
Snapping turtles can live up to 40 years in captivity, but some owners may think they can care for a snapping turtle for just a few years and then release it into the wild.
Snapping turtles require a lot of space to swim, with a minimum tank size of 55 gallons for adults.
You might think a shallow pool of water is enough for your snapping turtle, but they need a deep enough pool to fully submerge their bodies.
A diet of only fish and shrimp is not enough for a snapping turtle, as they need a varied diet that includes vegetables and fruits.
Snapping turtles can grow up to 19 inches in length and weigh up to 35 pounds, so they need a sturdy tank that can support their size.
Related reading: How Big Can a Common Snapping Turtle Get
Turtle Hatchlings
Turtle hatchlings are incredibly resilient, but they still need our protection. They don't need mom or dad, as they're fully capable of surviving on their own from the moment they hatch.
In fact, turtle hatchlings don't even need their parents to protect them from predators. They're tiny, soft, and slow, making them vulnerable to harm. However, this doesn't mean we should take them home because they "lost mom" – that's actually a big mistake.
To prevent problems for hatchlings, it's essential to cover mulch, sand, and loam piles with a tarp. This will keep them safe from predators and from getting hotter than they were when the mother turtle laid the eggs.
Walking your lawn before mowing and mowing on the highest setting is also crucial. This will help prevent accidental harm to hatchlings and adult turtles, as well as other animals.
Some common predators of turtle hatchlings include raccoons, skunks, and crows. These animals are often attracted to trash, which is why it's so important to take out trash just before pickup, or as close as possible, and keep it covered and secure.
If you're gardening or landscaping, be careful when using shovels and trowels. If you see a turtle laying eggs, remember where it was – the turtle will disguise the nest well, so take a photo or make a note.
Here are some tips to help protect turtle hatchlings:
- Cover mulch, sand, and loam piles with a tarp.
- Walk your lawn before mowing and mow on the highest setting.
- Take out trash just before pickup, or as close as possible, and keep it covered and secure.
- Be careful when gardening and landscaping, and use shovels and trowels carefully.
- Don't try to relocate a nest without contacting a licensed rehabber – it's not simple or easy to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do when a snapping turtle lays eggs in your yard?
Leave snapping turtles undisturbed when they lay eggs in your yard, as they will dig and cover the nest without returning to it. If you encounter a nesting snapping turtle, simply observe from a safe distance to avoid disrupting the process.
How long do snapping turtle eggs need to hatch?
Snapping turtle eggs typically hatch in 9-18 weeks, influenced by environmental conditions.
Where do snapping turtles lay their eggs?
Snapping turtles typically nest in soil banks, gravel piles, or sandy areas, often far from their water habitat. They bury their eggs approximately six inches deep in these locations.
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