Space use patterns of the common snapping turtle, Chelydra serpentina serpentina, at the headwaters of the San Marcos River, Hays County, Texas
Date
1999-05
Authors
Aguirre, Paul B.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
I investigated space use and activity patterns of the common snapping turtle, Chelydra serpentina serpentina, from March 1997 to May 1998 using radio-telemetry techniques. Home range areas were estimated and extensive overlap of home range areas were found among males, but not among females. Snapping turtles were found to be active both day and night, and throughout all seasons with periodic episodes of inactivity. Snapping turtles were not seen on land, nor were any seen basking. Aggressive behaviors were observed among snapping turtles, but it was not known if they were territorial or courtship encounters. Radio-telemetered turtles were tracked mostly in areas of slow moving water, submerged below muddy substrates and beneath heavy vegetative cover.
Description
Keywords
snapping turtles, Chelydra serpentina, Spring Lake
Citation
Aguirre, P. B. (1999). Space use patterns of the common snapping turtle, Chelydra serpentina serpentina, at the headwaters of the San Marcos River, Hays County, Texas (Unpublished thesis). Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.