In a surprising discovery, a twelve-kilogram alligator snapping turtle has been found in a drainage shaft in Kellinghusen, a small town near Hamburg, Germany. The turtle, which has been named Gabi by the staff at the Sparrieshoop Wildlife and Species Protection Center, is native to Central American rivers and is known for its aggressive nature.
The unusual find occurred on Friday, May 9, 2025, when two men were cleaning a shaft adjacent to the Stör, a tributary of the Elbe River. As they worked, they stumbled upon the turtle lurking among the underbrush, likely waiting for prey.
Once captured, Gabi was transported to the Sparrieshoop center, where staff members placed her in a secured pond. Christian Erdmann, the center's director, remarked on Gabi's unique appearance, stating, "Gabi is very ugly, but agile. She can climb." This description highlights both the physical characteristics and the surprising agility of the turtle, which is known for its formidable bite.
Alligator snapping turtles can weigh up to 100 kilograms and reach shell lengths of up to 70 centimeters. Their powerful jaws are capable of biting through a broomstick, and as noted by the Zoo Basel, "A human finger would be about the same challenge for their jaw as a pretzel is for ours." This immense bite strength raises concerns about the potential danger these turtles pose to both humans and other animals.
Erdmann suspects that Gabi was abandoned and may have lived in the Stör for some time, where she likely fed on crabs, fish, and ducks. He warns that these turtles can pose a threat to small animals, including dogs. To prevent Gabi from escaping her enclosure, a fence has been constructed around the pond.
In Germany, there is a nationwide ban on keeping alligator snapping turtles as pets due to their dangerous nature. Erdmann is now seeking a suitable zoo to take Gabi in, as private ownership is not an option under current regulations. He commented, "We hope to find a zoo that will take Gabi into their care."
This incident is not isolated; a similar case occurred nearly a year ago in Baden-Württemberg, where another alligator snapping turtle was discovered on a dirt road. Following that event, police issued warnings about the potential dangers posed by these turtles, emphasizing their capacity to seriously injure people and pets.
The discovery of Gabi has sparked conversations about the responsibilities of pet ownership, particularly concerning exotic animals. Erdmann remarked on the importance of adhering to regulations designed to protect both people and wildlife, noting that keeping such dangerous creatures as pets can lead to hazardous situations.
As Gabi settles into her new temporary home, the search for a permanent sanctuary continues. The Sparrieshoop Wildlife and Species Protection Center remains committed to ensuring her safety and well-being while they navigate the challenges of finding an appropriate facility for her.
This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of illegal pet ownership and the risks associated with releasing exotic animals into non-native environments. It raises questions about how such creatures end up in places where they do not belong and the responsibilities of individuals who choose to keep them.
In conclusion, the story of Gabi the alligator snapping turtle highlights the need for awareness and education regarding the keeping of exotic animals. As authorities investigate how she came to be in Kellinghusen, it is crucial to consider the broader implications for wildlife conservation and public safety.
