Two alligator snapping turtles were safely rescued after becoming trapped in a lake drainage system, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
MDWFP Exotic Animal Program Lead Colt Mooney responded to the report from a DMAP property manager and removed both turtles after assessing the situation, according to the department.
While handling the animals, Mooney collected measurements and DNA samples that will be sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to support ongoing research and conservation efforts, the department said. Alligator snapping turtles are currently listed as a proposed threatened species.
According to MDWFP, the species has experienced significant population declines over the years due to overharvesting for meat markets, nest predation, illegal collection and accidental capture in fishing gear. Because the turtles grow slowly and don’t begin reproducing until later in life, populations can take decades to recover, the department said.
Both turtles were returned to the wild following the rescue, according to MDWFP.
The department is asking anyone who suspects illegal harvesting, bycatch or other threats to alligator snapping turtles or other protected wildlife to report it to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at fws.gov/wildlife-crime-tips.
