Updates On 4th Mar 2014

Among all the turtle and tortoise residents of ACRES, the mention of Common snapping turtles always seems to strike fear in visitors due to their powerful large jaws and ability to snap at their prey.

But these ancient looking turtles share many more fascinating attributes. Here we have a close up shot of “Newton”, our Common snapping turtle attempting to tear apart an enrichment.

Common snapping turtles have existed on Earth for millions of years and shared the rivers with dinosaurs. They have evolved to snap in defense as their heads are too big to be tucked into their shells like other turtle species. This has given them a fearsome reputation.They also posses powerful legs with claws to tear prey and climb. They are also omnivores, spending more time feeding on aquatic plants. During daytime, they lie on the bottom of a shallow riverbed and wait to snap at unsuspecting fish.

They are found in North America, along with the more widely known Alligator snapping turtles who grow to larger sizes. Common snapping turtles have a life span of about 30 years.

Common snapping turtles are heavily hunted for the meat trade and also taken for the illegal wildlife trade. Unless these cruel practices stop, these fascinating turtles who have been around much longer then us would not be called ‘COMMON’ snapping turtles in the future.

Source: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152015962441523&set..

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ACRES

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based charity and Institution of Public Character, founded by Singaporeans in 2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare.

ACRES has six focus areas: Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Wildlife Crime Investigation, Zoo Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Community Outreach and Promoting Cruelty-Free Living.

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