Common Snapping Turtle (non-native invasive)

Description:

• Oval shell widens toward the back where it is strongly serrated
• Shell color varies from tan/brown to olive to almost black
• Bottom shell (plastron) yellowish, small and cross shaped
• Top of tail has a series of large triangular plates
• Adult shell length about 8-14 inches long and weighs 10-35 lbs

Habitat:

• Mainly aquatic; prefers warmer, still or slow-moving waterbodies
• Inhabits ponds, lakes, reservoirs, swamps, streams and rivers
• In coast areas they are known to inhabit saltwater marshes

Impact:

• Prey on native fish and wildlife including native turtles
• Compete with native turtles for food, basking and nesting sites, and covering habitat
• May introduce parasites or diseases to native turtle populations

Status:

• Regulated by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) as Prohibited Non-Native Wildlife
• Illegal to import/bring into Oregon or possess live without a permit from ODFW
• More information about Common Snapping Turtles can be found here

Range:

• Native to North America east of the Continental Divide