Can snapping turtles bite underwater?

Question

I've seen a snapping turtle about 16 18 inches wide swimming in our lake and i'm not sure whether its safe or not to swim in it. Can snapping turtles bite you while their underwater and is it dangerous to be swimming around them?

Answer 1

Although there are definitely instances of snapping turtles biting, it is unusual. It's usually quite safe to swim around them. If you happen to put your foot near a large snapper or alligator snapper's mouth you're probably going to lose a toe.

Answer 2

Yes...actually, it is more common for them to eat under water than above water.

But should you swim?

Well, that is obviously up to you.  I have read about snapping turtles before, and here is what I can pass to you...

I know they are usually found deep in the muddy bottom of lakes where there is much vegetation.  However, if you were to stumble upon one when swimming, they usually will retreat.

I think its important to note that they are known to snap at everything that comes very close to them...so if they didn't see you, and you just appeared in front of them, its possible they would bite you

I personally used to swim at a lake where snapping turtles apparently lived, however I never saw them.  I might not have seen them, because  like I said, they usually stay at the bottom of lakes.  But if you are seeing them often, maybe you should stay away from the water?

Answer 3

Yes, they're dangerous. They hunt underwater, so of course they'll bite. Stay away from them. The water they live in is probably full of harmful microbe so swim in a pool instead.

Answer 4

Yes,They can bite in the water or out the water

Answer 5

It is safe.  Snapping turtles don't attack or attempt to eat people.

Answer 6

They catch their food underwater so they CAN bite. However, they are much less agressive in the water than they are on land. There is probably one in every pond or lake within their range and you don't often hear of anyone being bitten while swimming, do you? Swim. Enjoy!

EDIT: To Chris. Stepping on a snapper won't get you bitten. There is a collecting technique called "noodling". You wade thru the mud barefoot and feel for the snappers. Then you reach down and grab the tail. It helps if you know which end is which. And, before you ask, I have done it.

Answer 7

It is very, very rare for a snapper to bite someone without being provoked.  Stepping on one might be seen as a provocation by the turtle, but it would be very difficult to annoy one to the point of biting by swimming over or around it.  

You'll be fine - just watch where you put your feet.

Answer 8

well one bit my shiner while i was fishing and he was underwater, so yes. dont go in the water