How do you guys do it!!!

[jdiidy271]

hey guys. im just wonderin how you all with the snapping turtles can pick them up and stuff. id be worrying about it biting my fingers off. haha.

 

[logo]

I pick mine up from the back end of the shell but mine arent too big yet so I may have to switch my technique as they get heavier.

 

[CTU2fan]

All the snappers I've ever kept have gotten to be at least somewhat tame. The vast majority of them were much quicker to try to kick their way free when being held, as most turtles will do, than try to bite. I've been told that softshells are far more likely to use their jaws when held, but I haven't kept them so I can't confirm this.

 

[Horiyoshi III]

Hold them on the back lip of their carapace, behind their legs.
And when it gains weight make sure to not (or ever) pick it up by the tail.Could cause spinal injuries.

 

[jdiidy271]

o..... i always see people pics of people picking up there snappers and they didnt look too happy...... for me the first time it would try to bite me i would be afraid of it..... lol dont want to lose a finger or anything..... but again thats just me

 

[rmorse]

From google images:

Go from behind, and they won't get you. Only their neck and jaws are fast. Just go up the back of their shell, keeping low against the shell.

 

[Mike D]

i would assume people would try to handle them as much as possible when they got that big.

but going from behind the head is your best bet.

 

[Berber King]

I always find commons far worse to handle than alligators.

 

[Hap3niz]

maan.. such intimidating turtles... i'd be to scared to pick it up

 

[jdiidy271]

same here..... especially alligator snappers who have the worlds 2nd strongest jaws