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File #019 //
Alligator Snapping Turtle
(Macrochelys Temminckii)
Core Data
Designation: Freshwater Turtle
Habitat: Primarily found in freshwater habitats in the southeastern United States.
Diet: Feeds primarily on fish, mollusks, and amphibians. Its also known to eat snakes, water birds, and even small alligators
Size: While there are some exceptions, general carapace length from 35 to 80.8cm (13.8 to 31.8in).
Lifecycle: Potential lifespan is unknown. Its believed to be capable of living 200 years but 80 to 120 is more likely.
Specialized Functions
The inside of the turtles mouth is camouflaged, except for a small worm shaped appendage on its tongue to attract fish! If a fish gets in the way, it snaps its mouth close. Its bite is strong enough to snap a wooden broomstick!
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