Snapping Turtle
(Chelydra serpentina)
Snapping Turtle
In Montana, snapping turtle are present
east of the Continental Divide, mostly in
the Yellowstone River system and tributaries,
especially the Tongue River drainage.
Snapping turtles have been observed in
backwaters along major rivers, at smaller
reservoirs, and in smaller streams and creeks
with permanent fl owing water and sandy
or muddy bottoms. Conservation concerns
include: nest destruction and predation;
human harvest of long-lived adults; and
habitat loss and degradation, including
barriers that hamper movement of snapping
turtles. Conservation strategies include:
conserving nest areas; reviewing harvest
limits; and conserving major rivers systems
in Montana, including riparian habitats.
