Chelydridae

Chelydropsis murchisoni 01

Chelydridae is a family of turtles known commonly as snapping turtles. This family consists of two extant genera: Chelydra, the common snapping turtles, and Macrochelys, which includes the larger alligator snapping turtles. Members of this family are native to the Americas, ranging from southeastern Canada through the United States and into parts of Central America and the northern parts of South America. Chelydridae are characterized by their large size, powerful beaked jaws, and aggressive demeanor when out of water. Their natural habitats include a variety of freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, swamps, and ponds.

Description

Chelydridae turtles have a robust build with a heavily armored shell and a large head. Their tails are often long and have saw-toothed ridges. These turtles are known for their powerful jaws and the ability to snap quickly as a defense mechanism, hence the name snapping turtles. The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is particularly noted for its worm-like appendage on the tongue, used to lure fish into its mouth.

Behavior

Snapping turtles are mostly aquatic and prefer to spend most of their time in water. They are not typically baskers but will occasionally emerge to bask in the sun. They are solitary animals and can be quite aggressive if threatened or provoked. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of both plant and animal matter, including fish, frogs, birds, and small mammals.

Reproduction

Chelydridae turtles are oviparous, laying eggs in nests dug into the ground. Females lay eggs once a year and can produce large clutches of eggs, which they cover with soil or vegetation. The eggs hatch after a few months, and the hatchlings are entirely independent from birth.

Conservation

While some species of snapping turtles are still common and widespread, their populations are threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and traffic on roads. The alligator snapping turtle is considered to be vulnerable due to overharvesting for its meat and the pet trade. Conservation efforts are in place in some areas to protect these species and their habitats.

Taxonomy

The family Chelydridae is divided into two genera:

• Chelydra - the common snapping turtles
• Macrochelys - the alligator snapping turtles

In Culture

Snapping turtles have featured in various cultural references and folklore, often portrayed as creatures to be wary of due to their aggressive nature and powerful bite. They are also popular in some areas as a source of food.