Editing Alligator snapping turtle (section)

==Under human care==
[[Image:Alligator Snapping Turtle2.jpg|thumb|Correct handling of a {{cvt|45|lb|kg}} alligator snapping turtle at Austin Reptile Service, in [[Austin, Texas]]]]

The alligator snapping turtle is sometimes captive-bred as a pet and is readily available in the exotic animal trade. Due to its potential size and specific needs, it does not make a particularly good pet for any but the most experienced aquatic turtle keepers.<ref>[http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/cs-allisnapper.htm AST Care Sheet]. Austinsturtlepage.com. Retrieved on August 22, 2012.</ref>

It prefers to feed on live fish, but will readily feed on other types of meat or leafy vegetables if offered. Hand feeding is dangerous. Extreme temperatures are known to affect the turtle's appetite and would result in the turtle refusing to feed until the temperature has been regulated.

Due to the turtle's sheer size, handling an adult specimen poses significant problems. With relative safety, a smaller turtle is held by the sides of its shell. A larger turtle, with its proportionately longer neck and greater reach, is held safely by grasping the shells just behind the head with one hand and using the other hand to grasp the shell just above the tail's base.

Despite its reputation, the alligator snapping turtle is typically not prone to biting. However, if provoked, it is quite capable of delivering a powerful bite which can easily [[Amputation|amputate]] fingers or cause other significant injuries, such as cuts.<ref name="USGSFactSheet"/> In some U.S. states, where the alligator snapping turtle does not naturally occur (such as [[California]]),  it is prohibited from being kept as a pet by residents.