Snapping turtles have been seen in this Idaho community

Published at 5:28 pm, June 30, 2026

Robert Patten, EastIdahoNews.com

snapping turtle in Garden City — This picture of what appears to be a snapping turtle was taken by a neighbor of Garden City Mayor Bill Jacobs. | Courtesy photo

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GARDEN CITY — The mayor of Garden City is warning residents about invasive snapping turtles.

In a Facebook post Thursday, Bill Jacobs said there had been “several recent sightings” of the reptiles.

“While they may look interesting, snapping turtles are not native to the @stateofidaho and are considered an invasive species that can negatively impact local fish, amphibians, and other wildlife,” the mayor wrote.

He recommended residents who have seen the creatures call Idaho Fish and Game at (877) 336-8676 and not to release captured or pet snapping turtles into the wild.

“Thank you for helping protect the Boise River, our ponds, and local wildlife. Together, we can prevent invasive species from becoming established in our community,” Jacobs said.

Snapping turtles, which are native to middle and eastern portions of the United States, as well as parts of Central and South America, are classified as invasive species in the Gem State.

“Their tendency to be generalists, diverse food preferences, long lifespans, and high adult survivorship make them competitive invaders,” according to Fish and Game.

And, Jacobs said, “Be careful, they do have a nasty bite!”

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