There are a number of different types of turtles around these days, many of which make great and fascinating pets for those that want a pet that is unique.
Snapping turtles are one of the variations of turtle around and these freshwater turtles can often be found being offered up for sale as tiny hatchlings that look cute and fascinating.
There are two types of snapping turtle, including the Common Snapper and the Alligator Snapper.
Anyone that is thinking of having a snapping turtle as a pet will need to learn more about these creatures and carefully consider whether this is the right choice of pet turtle.
As is the case with all turtles, snapping turtles will need to be properly looked after in order to keep them healthy and happy.
This can take more work than many people anticipate, with many rushing into having snapping turtles as pets without really considering what goes into keeping these creatures as pets.
Whilst they may be tiny when you buy them these turtles can become very big.
In fact, they can grow to an adult shell length of more than two feet and can way more than twelve stones! So, don't expect your hatchling to remain small and cute for long as they could soon become huge and you will need to be able to accommodate them in a suitable environment.
Another thing to remember is that these creatures live for around twenty years in captivity, so if you choose a snapping turtle you will have a pet for a very long time.
This is great in terms of having a pet than has longevity but it also mean that you have to be committed to providing care for your turtle for around two decades if it is properly looked after.
These turtles are not generally recommended as a first turtle for someone without any experience in looking after these types of creatures.
They are geared more towards those that have experience in keeping and looking after turtles.
There is a reason why these turtles have the name snapping turtles.
As they grow they develop very large jaws and can be very aggressive, which is another reason why they are best suited to the more experienced rather than for a family that want to get a first turtle to satisfy the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle fan in the house! These are all things that you need to consider if you are looking into getting a snapper turtle as a pet.
Taking such factors as their size as they get older, their aggression, their needs, and your required commitment into consideration will help you to make a more informed decision with regards to whether to choose a snapper.