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lejun | profile | all galleries >> Reptiles, Amphibians, Crustaceans, Mollusks, Arthropods, Hydrozoans and Related Animals >> Reptile Representatives >> Turtle Types >> Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)



This turtle is found primarily in the southeastern US.
It is charachterized by a large, heavy head and long, thick shell.
Three dorsal ridges of large scales (osteoderms) are present on the shell
giving it a primitive appearance reminiscent of some plated dinosaurs.
The average weight of mature adults ranges from 150-175 lbs.
The Alligator Snapping Turtle is now listed as a "Threatened" species due to
overharvesting for the meat and habitat destruction. The Alligator Snapping
Turtle is endangered in Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri.

Alligator Snapping Turtle Ready for Release
Alligator Snapping Turtle Ready for Release		 David holding Alligator Alligator Snapping Turtle
David holding Alligator Alligator Snapping Turtle		 Alligator Snapping Turtle Ready for Release
Alligator Snapping Turtle Ready for Release		 Releasing Alligator Snapping Turtle
Releasing Alligator Snapping Turtle		 Alligator Snapping Turtle Swimming Away
Alligator Snapping Turtle Swimming Away		 Alligator Snapping Turtle Under Water
Alligator Snapping Turtle Under Water
Alligator Snapping Turtle Open Mouth 4.0.jpg
Alligator Snapping Turtle Open Mouth 4.0.jpg		 Alligator Snapping Turtle Lure
Alligator Snapping Turtle "Lure"		 Alligator Snapping Turtle Baby
Alligator Snapping Turtle Baby 		Alligator Snapping Turtle Baby Ventral View
Alligator Snapping Turtle Baby Ventral View

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