What Animals Eat Turtles?
Turtles are a popular pet, but they are also food sources for many different animals in their natural environment. It is important to be aware of what creatures are eating your pet turtles, especially if they dwell in an outdoor environment. The following is a list of animals that feed on turtles.
Birds of Prey
Birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, are likely to hunt for turtles. They can eat the flesh of the turtle, as well as the eggs of the female.
Large Fish
Larger fish, like pikes and gar, are known to feed on turtles. Smaller turtles are more likely to be eaten by large fish, as the turtles are unable to dodge or escape the larger fish.
Coyotes and Wolves
Mammals like coyotes and wolves are known to feed on turtles. Not only can they eat the turtle, but also the eggs, leaving their nests vulnerable.
Crocodiles and Alligators
Crocodiles and alligators are the most feared predators of turtles. These reptiles can easily crush the shells of turtles. They have strong jaws that are capable of both killing and eating any turtle they find in their habitat.
Snakes
Snakes are also known to feed on turtles. They are capable of catching smaller turtles with ease and consuming them.
Humans
Humans are an unlikely predator of turtles, but this is still a very real threat. Humans can and do eat turtles, either cooked or raw. Turtles are often collected for their meat, for food and for making products like turtle soup.
Turtles are vulnerable to predation from numerous species, both in the wild and in captivity. It is important to be aware of the possible predators of your pet turtle, as well as to take preventative steps to protect them from being preyed upon.
