Snapping turtles!?

Question

Can they bite underwater?

I've been afraid to go into any ponds or any "dirtier" areas to swim in fear that I will be bitten underwater by a snapping turtle. I've pondered for a long time whether they can snap while they are underwater or not..I know those huge ones with the worm-tongues can, but what about common snappers? Thanks!

Answer 1

Yes, Snapping Turtles can bite underwater. This is how they get their prey. All snappers can bite under water or on land.

Answer 2

Snappers bite their prey underwater, mainly fish, but they are unlikely to bite a human underwater. They are extremely aggressive and quick to bite when cornered on land. But underwater, they feel more safe and will just try to get away, even if stepped on, according to biologists. You have nothing to fear by going in the water. I have jumped in after huge snappers before and they would just try to swim away and wouldn't bite underwater. It was a whole different story when I got them out of the water though!