Footage of a research student as he was collecting information about this rare species in Missouri.
The turtle nabbed the researcher's finger as he was removing it from the net in preparation of taking measurements. The researcher used a special tool to help pry his finger free from the turtle's mouth without harming the turtle.
The researcher suffering a cracked fingernail and a nasty cut around his finger and recovered from his wounds.
The turtle was released back to the wild unharmed.
This "small" alligator snapping turtle weighed close to 30 pounds.
The largest alligator snapping turtle found in Missouri weighed 128 pounds.
People should not handle nor fear these turtles. If you’re swimming or fishing near them, their best interest is to get out of your way.
The inherent risks involved in handling wildlife are part of the danger research scientists face while studying these fascinating creatures. http://www.mdc.mo.gov/nathis/endangered/endanger/allsnap/
