Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🐢

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Common Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina), a unique and intriguing reptile that’s often misunderstood yet highly captivating for the right owner. Known for their prehistoric looks, long lifespans, and feisty personalities, these turtles can be rewarding pets if you’re prepared for the commitment they demand. Whether you’re a seasoned herpetologist or someone considering an aquatic reptile for the first time, this review will help you decide if the Common Snapping Turtle is the perfect addition to your life.

Ease of Handling: 3/5

Handling a Common Snapping Turtle can be quite a challenge, even for experienced reptile enthusiasts. These turtles are notorious for their strong jaws, sharp claws, and defensive nature. Unlike more docile reptiles, such as Leopard Geckos or Ball Pythons, snapping turtles prefer not to be handled and may react aggressively when provoked or picked up.

Their bite strength is impressive, and their reach—thanks to their long necks—can surprise even those who know what to expect. This isn’t a pet you can cuddle or carry around, and we strongly recommend handling them only when absolutely necessary, such as during enclosure cleanings or health checks. When you do need to move them, always approach with caution and use proper techniques to avoid injury to yourself or the turtle. A pair of sturdy gloves and a plastic tub can come in handy for safe handling.

In short, the Common Snapping Turtle isn’t a pet for those seeking hands-on interaction. However, if you’re content with observing their behaviors and appreciating them from a distance, they can be a fascinating addition to your aquatic collection.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

Caring for a Common Snapping Turtle requires a significant investment in time, space, and resources. These turtles are aquatic and thrive in large, well-maintained enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. A basic setup includes:

1. Tank Size: Young snapping turtles can start in a 40-gallon tank, but adults will require much more space—ideally a pond or an enclosure of at least 100–200 gallons.
2. Water Quality: A powerful filtration system is essential to maintain clean water, as snapping turtles produce a lot of waste. Regular water changes are necessary to prevent health issues.
3. Basking Area: Provide a sturdy basking platform with access to UVB lighting to ensure proper calcium absorption and overall health.
4. Temperature Control: Maintain water temperatures between 72–78°F and a basking area around 85–90°F. Using heaters and thermometers ensures stability.
5. Diet: These omnivorous turtles thrive on a varied diet, including commercial turtle pellets, live or frozen fish, insects, leafy greens, and occasional treats like fruits. Supplementing their diet with calcium powder is also a good practice.

Because of their size and specific care requirements, snapping turtles are best suited for dedicated hobbyists who can provide the necessary space and resources.

Health and Durability: 5/5

One of the Common Snapping Turtle’s most appealing traits is its remarkable durability. These reptiles are hardy and can thrive for decades—sometimes even over 50 years—with proper care. However, this longevity is a double-edged sword, as it requires a long-term commitment from their owner.

Snapping turtles are generally resilient to common reptile health issues, but they can still be affected by poor husbandry. Shell rot, respiratory infections, and vitamin deficiencies are common ailments in turtles kept in suboptimal conditions. Ensuring a clean, well-balanced environment and a nutritious diet goes a long way in preventing these problems.

It’s also worth noting that their shells, while tough, are not impervious to damage. Sharp objects in their tank or inadequate basking areas can lead to injuries or deformities. Regular health checks and routine veterinary care are essential to keep your turtle in top condition.

Availability: 3/5

Common Snapping Turtles are widely available across the pet trade, especially in the United States. They are often sold as hatchlings through pet stores, breeders, or reptile expos. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the turtle you’re purchasing is captive-bred and not wild-caught. Wild populations of snapping turtles play a vital role in their ecosystems, and removing them from their habitats can disrupt ecological balance.

Additionally, some states and regions have specific regulations regarding the ownership of Common Snapping Turtles due to their potential to become invasive species. Always check local laws before bringing one home to avoid any legal complications.

Initial Cost: 3/5

The upfront cost of a Common Snapping Turtle is relatively affordable, with hatchlings typically priced between $20–$50. However, the real investment lies in setting up and maintaining their enclosure. A suitable tank, filtration system, lighting, and heating equipment can easily cost several hundred dollars.

Here’s a rough breakdown of initial costs:

• Hatchling: $20–$50
• Tank and Accessories: $300–$600 (depending on size and quality)
• Filtration System: $100–$200
• Lighting and Heating: $50–$100
• Substrate and Decorations: $50–$100

While these turtles may seem inexpensive at first glance, their long-term care expenses can add up quickly. Be sure to budget accordingly to ensure you can meet their needs throughout their lifespan.

Final Thoughts: 3.6/5

The Common Snapping Turtle is undoubtedly a remarkable and fascinating reptile, but it’s not the right pet for everyone. Their defensive nature, specific care requirements, and long lifespan make them best suited for experienced reptile enthusiasts who have the space, time, and dedication to provide for them.

If you’re up for the challenge, these turtles can be incredibly rewarding to care for. Watching them glide through the water or bask in their enclosure can be a mesmerizing experience. However, if you’re seeking a low-maintenance or hands-on pet, we recommend considering other reptiles like Leopard Geckos or Ball Pythons.

Remember, owning a pet is a long-term commitment, and providing the best care possible is essential to their well-being. Have you ever cared for a Common Snapping Turtle? Let us know about your experience in the comments below! 🐢