![Snapping turtle](/sites/default/files/styles/mobile_small/public/2022-06/snapping-turtle.jpg?itok=dT-_sB6l)
![North Dakota Game and Fish Department Logo](/gnf/base/gnf-logo.png)
Snapping Turtles
Snapping turtles are common throughout North Dakota. These big turtles can live 40-50 years or more in the wild and can grow to around 65 pounds (though most are in the 10-35 pound range). Mind your fingers and toes should you ever encounter one of these critters. When they feel threatened, these turtles will use their powerful, beak-like mouth to bite, and they don't like to let go.