How to Pick Up a Snapping Turtle

Snapping turtles are mean and aggressive, and very protective of their territory. If given a chance, they will bite whatever body part you present to them. They often turn up on the road, making drivers afraid of hitting them. The thing is, their long necks make it possible to reach almost anywhere on their body and they have very strong jaws. So how, exactly, do you pick up a snapping turtle without getting bit? It's easier than it sounds.

Things You'll Need

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Instructions

  1. How to Pick Up a Snapping Turtle

    • 1

      Approach it from behind. As snapping turtles are aggressive and will react violently from your approach if they feel threatened, it is important to approach it from behind. That way, they will not already be angry when you pick it up. It also makes it easier to grab.

    • 2

      Grab the back of the shell. The best way to pick up a turtle is to grab the back of its shell, just behind its legs. This is safest for the turtle, although you must be careful because they are fast, have long necks, and they will probably snap--even if you're trying to help, you're still encroaching on their space.

    • 3

      Grab it up by the tail. This method of picking up the turtle is not as highly recommended as the tail is a part of the turtle's back and can cause damage to the vertebrae. However, it's arguably safer for the handler as it will be harder for it to reach your hand.

    • 4

      Pick up the snapping turtle, but only lift it a few inches off the ground so that it doesn't get hurt if you drop it.

    • 5

      Quickly move the turtle, going in the same direction it was headed and put it down and back up quickly as they twist fast.