Snapping Turtles in Texas: Species and Distribution

Yes, snapping turtles are native to Texas. Three species occur:

1. Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

• Statewide in freshwater: rivers, lakes, ponds, swamps, ditches
• Most abundant; large (8–18 in shell, 10–35 lbs)
• Omnivorous; powerful jaws, long neck, aggressive on land

2. Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)

• East Texas only (Sabine, Neches, Trinity, Red River drainages)
• Threatened (state); largest freshwater turtle in N. America (up to 200+ lbs, 26+ in shell)
• Worm-like tongue lure; sits motionless on bottom

3. Florida Softshell (Apalone ferox) – *Not a true snapping turtle*

• Often confused; included in some older sources
• East Texas; pancake-flat, snorkel nose, fast swimmer

Note: "Florida snapping turtle" is a misnomer for the softshell. True snappers in TX: Common (ubiquitous) and Alligator (rare, protected).