Quick answer
Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) are reptiles found across North America. The powerful-jawed freshwater turtle of North America. Adults typically weigh 4.5–16 kg (10–35 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live 30–50 years. They feed on omnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers across central and eastern North America.
Key takeaway
Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) are reptiles found across North America. The powerful-jawed freshwater turtle of North America. Adults typically weigh 4.5–16 kg (10–35 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live 30–50 years. They feed on omnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers across central and eastern North America.
Snapping Turtle overview
Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is a reptile listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight 4.5–16 kg (10–35 lb); lifespan around 30–50 years.
Snapping Turtle ecology
Diet: Omnivore. Habitat: Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Snapping Turtles and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild snapping turtles are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Snapping Turtle profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Snapping Turtles inhabit Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers across central and eastern North America. Their preferred habitat includes freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across North America.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult snapping turtles typically measure about 0.5 m in length and weigh 4.5–16 kg (10–35 lb). They can sprint at up to 5 km/h (3 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Snapping Turtles are known for the powerful-jawed freshwater turtle of north america — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Snapping Turtle FAQs
What are key facts about snapping turtles?
Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) are reptiles found across North America. The powerful-jawed freshwater turtle of North America. Adults typically weigh 4.5–16 kg (10–35 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live 30–50 years. They feed on omnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers across central and eastern North America.
What is the scientific name of the snapping turtle?
Chelydra serpentina — used in research and conservation listings for snapping turtles.
What do snapping turtles eat?
Snapping Turtles are described as omnivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Where do snapping turtles live?
They are associated with Freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of snapping turtles?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.