Meeting the prehistoric powerhouse of Northwestern Ontario’s waterways.

When you catch a glimpse of a Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) basking on a log or lumbering across a gravel road in Northwestern Ontario, you are looking at a creature that has effectively outlived the dinosaurs. With their rugged, ridged shells, heavily scaled legs, and formidable claws, these reptiles are a striking reminder of Canada’s wild, prehistoric past.

Snapping turtles are Ontario’s largest freshwater turtles. In the northern reaches of the province, where the winters are long and harsh, these resilient reptiles have adapted to thrive. They spend the vast majority of their lives in the slow-moving, muddy waters of lakes, rivers, and wetlands.

Because they are cold-blooded, the northern climate dictates their lifestyle. They spend the freezing winter months completely submerged, buried in the mud at the bottom of waterways where they hibernate, incredibly absorbing oxygen through their skin.

The Ultimate Cleanup Crew

Despite their reputation for being aggressive, snapping turtles are actually quite docile when they are in the water. If approached by a swimmer, their first instinct is almost always to swim away and hide in the muck. Their famous “snap” is a defense mechanism they use exclusively when they feel vulnerable on land.

In reality, these giants are the unsung heroes of freshwater ecosystems. As omnivorous scavengers, they act as the ultimate lake cleanup crew. Consuming dead fish, decaying organic matter, and aquatic plants, they keep the water clean and prevent the spread of harmful bacteria, maintaining a healthy biological balance for fish and humans alike.

Coexisting with a Northern Icon

Early summer is a perilous time for these ancient creatures. Nesting females must leave the safety of the water to find loose, sandy gravel to bury their eggs—a search that frequently leads them to the shoulders of highways and backroads.

Roadside Safety: If you spot a turtle crossing the road and it is safe to assist, always move them in the direction they are heading. For snapping turtles, use a shovel, a car mat, or gently steer them from the back of the shell to keep your hands well away from their reach.

By respecting their space, driving mindfully during nesting season, and keeping our waterways clean, we can ensure that these magnificent, armored guardians continue to patrol the waters of Northwestern Ontario for generations to come.