A group of fishermen at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park in Tennessee got more than they bargained for when a colossal alligator snapping turtle lunged at their boat, leaving them shaken and wildlife authorities on high alert.
The incident occurred as the anglers navigated the park's waterways, unaware they were about to come face-to-face with one of North America's most formidable freshwater predators. Eyewitnesses described the prehistoric-looking creature as "the size of a car tire" with jaws powerful enough to snap bones.
Close Call on the Water
"It came out of nowhere and just attacked the side of our boat," recounted one of the fishermen, still visibly rattled by the encounter. "We could hear its jaws clacking together - that sound will haunt me forever."
Park officials confirmed this wasn't the first reported sighting of the rare turtle in the area, though attacks on boats remain extremely uncommon. The alligator snapping turtle, native to southern U.S. waters, can live up to 100 years and weigh over 200 pounds.
Wildlife Experts Issue Warning
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has since posted advisories urging visitors to maintain distance from any large turtles spotted in the park. "These are not animals to approach or provoke," cautioned a TWRA spokesperson. "Their bite force is legendary - they can easily remove fingers."
While not typically aggressive toward humans, the turtles may become defensive if they feel threatened, especially during nesting season. Park rangers recommend keeping hands and feet inside boats and avoiding shallow areas where the creatures might lurk.
A Living Fossil
Alligator snapping turtles are considered a threatened species in many states due to habitat loss and overharvesting. Their dinosaur-like appearance and incredible size make them both fascinating and intimidating.
"This encounter serves as an important reminder that we share these spaces with wild creatures," the TWRA spokesperson added. "Respect for wildlife is crucial for both human safety and conservation efforts."
Park visitors are encouraged to report any unusual wildlife sightings to ranger stations immediately.
