Nesting Emergences and Other Terrestrial Movements of Macrochelys (Testudines: Chelydridae)

John L. Carr¹, Jen Terry², Day B. Ligon³, Kevin M. Enge⁴, Caleb J. Krueger⁵, Travis M. Thomas⁶, Greg Brashear⁷, Gerald R. Johnston⁸, Mandi Gordon⁹, Gina Lloyd¹⁰, E. Pierson Hill⁴, Dirk J. Stevenson¹¹, and David A. Steen^4,*

¹Biology—School of Sciences, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71209. ²Department of Biological Sciences, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR 72401. ³Department of Biology, Missouri State University, 901 South National Avenue, Springfield, MO 65897. ⁴Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Gainesville, FL 32601. ⁵Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Program, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University, Hickory Corners, MI 49060. ⁶Nature Coast Biological Station, University of Florida, Cedar Key, FL 32625. ⁷Dallas, GA 30157. ⁸Department of Natural Sciences, Santa Fe College, Gainesville, FL 32606. ⁹University of Houston–Clear Lake, Environmental Institute of Houston, Houston, TX 77058. ¹⁰Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70148. ¹¹Altamaha Environmental Consulting, L.L.C., Hinesville, GA 31313. *Corresponding author.

Southeastern Naturalist,Volume 22, Special Issue 12 (2023): 378–387

Abstract
Alligator snapping turtles (genus Macrochelys) are the largest freshwater turtles in North America. Despite strong interest in their conservation, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of their natural history, including behaviors associated with terrestrial activity. We reviewed the literature and solicited unpublished observations of terrestrial movements of these highly aquatic turtles. We compiled 206 observations of terrestrial activity from 9 states. The majority of observations were associated with nesting behavior. Observations expanded our knowledge regarding the spatial extent and timing of terrestrial movements and the nesting season. In addition, we compiled observations of terrestrially foraging animals, as well as males and juveniles traveling overland and crossing roads. Collectively, this information clarifies the extent of terrestrial movement by Macrochelys, behaviors that should be considered in conservation plans.

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