Common Snapping Turtle Egg Gestation

The common snapping turtle is found in both the northern and southern parts of North America. The eggs of the female turtle can take up to five months to hatch, depending on the temperature. Once the babies hatch, their survival is dependent upon their instincts.

  1. Mating

    • The common snapping turtle's mating season occurs between April and November. The male will copulate with the female, causing fertilization.

    Fertilization

    • Female snapping turtles have a special duct that can keep sperm alive for up to three years. This allows the turtle to fertilize eggs at any time, with or without mating.

    Nesting

    • Once the eggs develop in the female turtle, she will feel the urge to leave the water and dig a nest. Using her back legs, she will dig a hole and lay up to 83 eggs at one time.

    Egg Gestation

    • According to the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology, a snapping turtle's egg gestation period lasts between nine and 18 weeks after nesting. Once the baby turtles hatch, they make a dangerous trek towards any open body of water.

    Hatchling Gender

    • The Ohio Department of Natural Resources states that the temperature determines the gender of snapping turtle hatchlings. Eggs incubated around 77 degrees will be male, while higher incubation temperatures will produce female turtles.