Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My pet snapper is in a 55 Gallon Aquarium right now. He is getting pretty big. I would have to say the size of a DVD case (give or take).

I am kind of getting scared to pick him up. He is usually just a (Look at and appreciate) pet. I only take him out when i do water changes and tank cleanings. This is because he wants me dead.

My question is how should i get him out of the tank as he grows bigger without losing fingers? Once I pick him up he snaps like crazy trying to reach behind his shell and bite my hand, his "snaps" make me almost lose my grip. This is how i hold him " 4 fingers under the back shell (behind back legs), my thumb on top. So, as he grows, how do i safely handle him? I know is strikes will get more powerful and he will be heavier and harder to hold.

Anyone else get really nervous while handling?

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0.0.2 RES's (The Boondock Saints)
0.0.1 Common Snapping Turtle (Aggro)
0.0.1 Eastern Red Bellie (Jake)
0.0.1 Map Turtle (Mappy)
0.2.0 Bearded Dragon (Yeungling,Killian)

if your talking about common snappers it might be in your best interest to try to tame him before he gets too big.you really can't tame alligator snappers. some are just more aggressive than others. its always good to have a healthy respect for these turtles when you pick them up. after getting bit a couple of times i've learned how not to pick them up!(lol) you might want to wear leather gloves when you remove him from the tank.