Increase in number of invasive snapping turtles in south of France
More sightings recorded in Pyrénées-Orientales; the turtle is also found in 29 other departments
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France’s biodiversity agency has warned of an increase in sightings of invasive common snapping turtles in the south of France where the species has been breeding for several years.
The Office français de la biodiversité (OFB) says many of them have been reported this year in the Pyrénées-Orientales, especially in the Tech river basin in the south of the department. The turtles are also known to live in Haute-Garonne, Gard, and Gironde, among the 29 metropolitan French departments where the species has been recorded.
Native to North America, the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is an exotic species in France. Unlike native turtles, it has no natural predators here and can threaten local wildlife.
It is one of several non-native turtle species that have been released into the wild in France, after being kept as pets.
The turtle is mainly carnivorous, feeding on insects, fish and amphibians. The OFB warns that it can pose “a significant danger” to local fauna and can compete with native species for resources and may also spread diseases and parasites.
The OFB also notes that common snapping turtles can be aggressive if they feel threatened. They can become defensive when out of the water and during the egg-laying season, when females may become more territorial. They have powerful jaws and can inflict a serious bite if handled. Their bite is strong enough to cause severe injuries, such as biting off a finger. The species is classified as dangerous in France rules due to this powerful bite.
Anyone who is bitten should clean the wound thoroughly and seek prompt medical advice as their jaws can cause serious injuries.
How can you recognise one?
Common snapping turtles are quite different from the more commonly seen Florida turtle.
They have:
a large head with a strongly hooked beak
a very long neck
a long tail with saw-like ridges
a dark brown or black shell
Adults typically measure between 20cm and 50cm and can weigh more than 40kg.
What should you do if you see one?
The OFB indicates that if you find a turtle in a natural environment, or even in peri-urban areas, and it does not appear to be in distress, it should be left as it is. Several turtle species found in the department are native and protected.
If, however, you believe you have seen a common snapping turtle, the OFB recommends reporting the sighting to its Pyrénées-Orientales office, ideally with photographs and the location. The contact email is sd66@ofb.gouv.fr.
If a turtle is injured, in distress or found in an urban area, the OFB recommends contacting a wildlife rescue organisation, which can help identify the species and advise on the appropriate action.
