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14 June 2023 Diurnal Observations of Alligator Snapping Turtles (Macrochelys temminckii)
Carl J. Franklin, Viviana Ricardez, Sal Scibetta, David Rosenbaum, Ben Grizzle
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Abstract

Macrochelys temminckii (Alligator Snapping Turtle) is a shy, well-camouflaged species that often inhabits turbid water. These factors, as well as the success of baited hoop traps in attracting the species at night, have created the perception that the species is predominantly nocturnal and does not bask. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that the species is also diurnally active and does bask. The use of binoculars and high-range cameras combined with extensive time in the field allowed us to document 25 instances of diurnal activity including behaviors such as basking, protrusion of the head above water, swimming, and foraging (i.e., entering baited traps). Our observations contribute to increasing evidence that both adults and juveniles exhibit basking and other diurnal behaviors.

Carl J. Franklin, Viviana Ricardez, Sal Scibetta, David Rosenbaum, and Ben Grizzle "Diurnal Observations of Alligator Snapping Turtles (Macrochelys temminckii)," Southeastern Naturalist 22(sp12), 410-417, (14 June 2023). https://doi.org/10.1656/058.022.0sp1225
Published: 14 June 2023
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