To safely remove or relocate a snapping turtle, especially if it's in a dangerous spot like a road, the most secure method is to carefully grab the back of its shell just above the tail using two hands.
Snapping turtles, known for their powerful bite and long necks, require cautious handling. Moving them typically refers to helping them cross a road or gently guiding them out of an unwelcome area where they might be at risk.
When and Why You Might Need to Move a Snapping Turtle
Snapping turtles are an important part of their ecosystem. Generally, it's best to leave wildlife undisturbed. However, there are specific situations where human intervention is necessary for the turtle's safety:
- On a Roadway: This is the most common scenario where intervention is needed. Turtles moving between bodies of water often cross roads and are vulnerable to vehicle traffic.
- In Your Yard (Temporary): If a turtle is briefly in an area where it might be harmed by pets, children, or landscaping equipment, and you can safely guide it to a nearby natural area.
- Entangled or Trapped: If a turtle is stuck in fencing, debris, or a small, enclosed space from which it cannot escape.
Safe Handling Technique
Moving a snapping turtle requires extreme caution to protect both yourself and the animal. Snapping turtles can reach surprisingly far with their necks, and their bite can cause serious injury.
The Two-Handed Shell Grab
The most recommended method for safely moving a larger snapping turtle is as follows:
- Approach from the Rear: Always approach the turtle from behind to minimize the chance of a bite.
- Locate the Grip Point: Identify the back edge of its shell, just above where the tail begins.
- Use Both Hands: With a firm, steady motion, grab the back of the shell with both hands. Your hands should be positioned on either side of the tail, at the very rear edge of the carapace (top shell).
- Lift and Carry Low: Lift the turtle, keeping it low to the ground. This reduces the risk of injury if you accidentally drop it. Carry it in the direction it was already headed, if possible, and release it safely on the other side of the road or in a suitable nearby natural habitat.
Why this method works: This specific grip prevents the turtle from reaching your hands with its neck and limits its ability to maneuver and bite. Its neck is less flexible directly at the very back of the shell.
What NOT to Do
Avoiding certain actions is just as crucial as knowing the right technique:
- Never Grab by the Tail: Grabbing a turtle by its tail can severely injure its spine and is extremely harmful.
- Avoid the Front or Sides: Do not attempt to grab the turtle from the front, as its neck can extend quickly and far. Avoid grabbing the sides of the shell as its neck can still reach.
- Don't Push with Feet or Tools: Kicking or prodding a turtle can cause injury or stress and is ineffective for safe relocation.
- Do Not Pick Up by the Edges of the Shell near the Head: This still leaves your hands within striking distance of its powerful jaws.
- Do Not Relocate Far Away: If you must move a turtle, release it in the closest safe, natural area in the direction it was already heading. Relocating an animal too far from its original territory can disorient it and drastically reduce its chances of survival.
Alternative Methods for Smaller Turtles or Hesitant Individuals
For smaller snapping turtles, or if you are uncomfortable with direct handling, there are alternative approaches:
- Slide onto a Flat Surface: Use a shovel, piece of plywood, or sturdy car mat to gently slide the turtle onto it, then drag or carry the surface to move the turtle.
- Gently Nudge (Small Turtles Only): For very small turtles, a broom or long stick can be used to gently nudge them in the desired direction. Maintain a safe distance and avoid applying strong force.
- Towels or Blankets: You can carefully guide a turtle onto a thick towel or blanket, then use the fabric to lift and carry it. This provides a barrier between you and the turtle.
Safety Precautions
When interacting with any wildlife, safety should be your top priority:
- Wear Gloves: Thick gloves can offer some protection, though they won't stop a determined bite.
- Maintain Awareness: Keep your eyes on the turtle's head and neck at all times.
- Be Calm and Deliberate: Quick, jerky movements can startle the turtle.
- Wash Hands Thoroughly: After any contact with turtles, wash your hands with soap and water. Turtles can carry Salmonella.
If a snapping turtle is in a situation where you cannot safely move it, or if it appears injured, contact your local animal control, wildlife rehabilitation center, or humane society for assistance.
| Do This | Don't Do This |
|---|---|
| Grab the back of the shell, above the tail, with two hands | Grab by the tail |
| Approach from the rear | Approach from the front or sides |
| Use a shovel or flat object to slide turtle | Kick or prod with feet/short objects |
| Release in the direction it was going, nearby | Relocate far from its original area |
| Wear gloves and wash hands | Handle without protection or forget hand washing |
