There are two different species of snapping turtle, Macrochelys temminckii (the Alligator Snapping Turtle) and Chelydra serpentina. Chelydra serpentina is further divided into four different subspecies - Common Snapping Turtle, Florida Snapping Turtle, Mexican Snapping Turtle and South American Snapping Turtle (Ecuadorian Snapping Turtle). In order to provide your specific turtle with ideal snapping turtle care , it is therefore advisable to find out exactly which species or subspecies you have and learn more about the habitat in which this species is naturally found. Snapping turtles living in Canada can naturally require snapping turtle care that is somewhat different from the snapping turtle care recommended for subspecies living in Mexico or Ecuador.
 
Alligator snapping turtle care
Alligator snappers are easy obtainable in the exotic animal trade, but unfortunately a lot of people buy small Alligator snapping turtles without bothering to find out how large they can become as adults. One of the most important aspects of proper Alligator snapping turtle care is to provide the animal with a large enough home where it can thrive and exhibit its normal behaviours throughout its life. If you are not prepared to comfortably house a 26 inch long turtle, it is best to refrain from getting an Alligator snapping turtle and instead choose a turtle or tortoise that will stay small even as an adult. 26 inches is the average size for an adult Alligator snapping turtle, but they can grow significantly larger.

Common snapping turtle care – basking
The Common snapping turtle can be housed indoors, but since light is essential you must provide your Common snapping turtle with an alternative to the suns light, otherwise it might loose its health. Proper common snapping turtle care for indoor kept specimens include arranging a dry basking area as well as a slightly submerged one. Normal light bulbs are not enough; the turtle will need a full spectrum fluorescent light in order to receive UVB rays. Giving your pet plenty of UVB light is an imperative part of good snapping turtle care since this type of light is necessary for the production of Vitamin D3, which is turn affects the calcium metabolism. If you prefer to use mercury vapour lights, you can find such lights that provide plenty of UVB rays. It should however be noted that Mercury vapour lights tend to be much more expensive than full spectrum fluorescent light. The temperature in the basking spot should be around 90 degrees F (32 degrees C).

Common snapping turtle care – set up
Another important aspect of proper snapping turtle care is to reduce stress in the animal. A snapping turtle kept in a barren container without hiding spots can become highly stressed and eventually succumb to disease. Try to mimic the natural habitat of the turtle and include plenty of vegetation. Common snapping turtles destroy live plants, so you can either use artificial plants or choose sturdy, fast growing live plants that will tolerate snapping turtle attacks. A large clay flowerpot or similar can be used as a much appreciated hiding spot for Common snapping turtles.

Snapping Turtle Articles:

Common Snapping Turtle
Snapping Turtle Facts & Information