Alligator Snapping Turtle Terrifies Virginia Residents, Locals Warned About Owning Reptile

Residents in Alexandria, Virginia have been noticing an increasing wildlife presence in the area, but over the summer locals were shocked when they spotted an alligator snapping turtle crossing the road.

The New York Post reported that the Fairfax County Police received reports from locals that were terrified of a prehistoric-looking creature that was slowly crossing the road.

In a June Facebook post, the police revealed that the Animal Protection Police (APP) was able to capture the 65-pound alligator snapping turtle and take it off of the streets.

“Alligator snapping turtles are not native to our area and it’s believed this was a captive-bred turtle that was released into the wild. The turtle was safely captured by the APP and transported temporarily to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter,” the post read.

“The county’s Wildlife Management Specialist arranged transfer of the turtle to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF). The turtle has now found a new home at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk!”

While the “common” snapping turtle, which is identified as the Chelydra serpentina, is native to Virginia, the alligator snapping turtle that was captured is native to river drainages that flow in the Gulf of Mexico.

On Facebook, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources warned the public about the importance of doing their research before they decide to bring a turtle into their homes.

“If you are considering a turtle as a pet, please do your homework first and find out what it takes to provide adequate care for a lifelong commitment. Many species of turtle can live a minimum of 50 years and others more than 100,” the post read.