Alligator snapping turtles (ASTs) are the largest species of freshwater turtle in the western hemisphere. In Texas these lurking leviathans inhabit our bayous, creeks, lakes and rivers from the Trinity River in Tarrant County and river systems eastward. If ever there could be a ‘Texas-sized’ turtle, this is it. Adult females can weigh as much as 80 pounds while adult males in the wild can attain massive proportions of just over 200 pounds and total lengths (from snout to tail tip) of 5 feet!
Also, more alligator snapping turtles call Texas home than any other state making Texas the 'Alligator snapping turtle capital'.
By collaborating with citizen scientists, various experts and stakeholders our research has resulted in several publications that have illuminated our knowledge of these turtles and provided data for conservation policy makers including Texas Parks and Wildlife and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
​
​