Skip to main content

Alligator Snapping Turtle (Rory Calhoun)

Macrochelys temminckii

Photo by MitchRay
Published on Project Noah
Zoom
NominateNominate for Wildlife Photograph of the Month
reportFlag Spotting

32.5093, -92.1193

Field Notes

Notes:

Rory Calhoun here was the first relatively big male I caught. He weighed in at around 75 pounds. Sadly we discovered his carapace on the railroad tracks one day, picked clean with the radio still attached. We suspected poachers, but it was impossible to prove.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (3)
JessyZich
Poor guy, they live so long it's amazing!
MitchRay
Sadly it often depends on how "charismatic" the animal is. Everyone wants to save "pretty" animals, but it's much more difficult to get officials and the general public to care about "ugly" animals. Luckily these turtles are large enough to generate public interest. Public education and awareness is crucial, and something I always try to foster with my students and the people I meet.
Ashish
I thought animal poachers are only in Asia and Africa from poor community. Mitch you have given good information. Will America take strict action to cease poaching business ?
Photographed
PublishedApril 22, 2011

Community Sponsor

Butterfly
Become a Community Sponsor and Help Grow our Global Movement!

Accelerate our Mission to Photograph 
Every Species in the World!

Butterflies icon
Become a Community Sponsor

Wildlife Community

Wildlife Community

Join a worldwide community passionate about wildlife and nature!

Join Project Noah

Nature School

Nature School

Transform your green space into a curiosity-creating nature classroom!

Visit Nature School

Wildlife Game

Wildlife Game

Defend wildlife throughout the jungle in thrilling nature game!

Play Baboon

Nature & Conservation Organizations

Brands & Mission-Focused Companies