South Dakota’s Largest Snapping Turtle Ever Recorded!

One Mammoth Monster earns the title of South Dakota's Record-Breaking Snapping Turtle.

Snapping turtles are a type of freshwater turtle known for their powerful jaws and aggressive defensive behavior.

South Dakota is home to what may be the most impressive snapping turtle ever documented in the region.

A massive 44-pound female that dwarfs the typical snappers found in Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery in Yankton.

This record-breaking specimen, officially documented by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks, represents an extraordinary example of how large these ancient reptiles can grow under the right conditions.

To put this into perspective, the average South Dakota snapping turtle weighs around 12 pounds with a shell length of approximately 12 inches.

This champion turtle was nearly four times heavier than her typical counterparts.

Snapping turtles are among the most formidable freshwater reptiles in North America, known for their powerful jaws, prehistoric appearance, and remarkable longevity.

These creatures can live for decades, with some specimens reaching ages of 50 years or more.

The larger the turtle, the older it likely is, suggesting this 44-pound giant had been patrolling South Dakota's waterways for many years.

Female snapping turtles typically grow larger than males.

During summer months, these impressive reptiles emerge from lakes, rivers, and wetlands to lay their eggs on land, offering lucky observers a chance to witness these living dinosaurs in action.

This remarkable discovery highlights the incredible diversity thriving in South Dakota's aquatic ecosystems and serves as a reminder of the prehistoric wonders still roaming our local waters.