How to Breed Alligator Snapping Turtles

The alligator snapping turtle is one of the largest fresh water turtles in the world and can grow up to 26 inches long and weigh up to 220 lbs. Breeding them in captivity can be a tricky business because the alligator snapping turtle is a temperamental creature that has been known to attack its mate. Breeding them is possible though, as long as you are aware of the dangers and have the patience that will be required.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 male and 1 female alligator snapping turtle
  • Pond with a shallow spot
  • Shovel
  • Sand
  • Feeding pellets
  • Chicken or beef
  • Leafy greens
  • Incubator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Introduce the male and the female alligator snapping turtle in the same pond after their hibernation period has finished which should be March or early April. It is vital that no other turtles are introduced into the pond until the mating season is finished. Remember that your pond will need a shallow area for the mating to take place in.

    • 2

      Dig a hole near to the turtle's pond so that the female can lay her eggs without having to travel too far. The hole should be around 2 feet square and 1 foot deep. Fill the hole with sand to form the ideal nesting condition for any eggs that the female alligator snapping turtle might lay.

    • 3

      Feed your alligator snapping turtles with a good quality feed pellet. You can also supplement their diet with chicken, beef or leafy greens if you want to. it is vital that your turtles are fed an adequate diet to keep them healthy.

    • 4

      Watch the turtles in the evenings and look out for the female emerging from the pond to lay her eggs. As soon as the female has laid her eggs, you should remove the male from the pond. The female may lay as many as 50 eggs as a time.

    • 5

      Monitor the eggs for the next 100 to 140 days which is the gestation period of the alligator snapping turtle. You may want to transfer the eggs to an incubator at this time.