Massive Snapping Turtle Encounter in Mississippi River: Is It Really That Dangerous?

Imagine kayaking on a serene river when you suddenly spot an enormous creature just feet away from you. How would you react? This is exactly what happened to a Minnesota woman whose encounter with a massive snapping turtle has left the internet buzzing. But don’t worry—experts assure there’s no reason for alarm.

Keep reading to learn about Shala Holm’s incredible experience and why her story has captured so much attention online.

A Summer Adventure Turned Viral Moment

Shala Holm, originally from Buffalo, Minnesota, had no idea her family vacation last summer would lead to viral fame. She and her family were staying at Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort near Brainerd, a peaceful getaway nestled along the Mississippi River. While kayaking with her daughter, Holm experienced a close encounter with a snapping turtle that would become the highlight of her trip—and later, an internet sensation.

It all started when Holm and her daughter paddled their tandem kayak near the riverbank. Out of nowhere, her daughter whispered, “Mom, be quiet. I can hear something breathing.” Holm scanned the area, expecting to see something ordinary like a deer or bird. Instead, she noticed the turtle’s nose edging toward a basket of fish attached to their kayak.

Face to Face with a Giant

The turtle latched onto the fish basket with its enormous claws, startling both mother and daughter. “He was so big, and we were so startled,” Holm said. The turtle’s sheer size was enough to send shivers down their spines, but Holm quickly shook the basket to scare it away.

Curious and determined, the pair returned to the same spot the next day, hoping for another glimpse of the mysterious creature. Armed with a camera, they waited patiently while fishing from their kayak. This time, they managed to capture a photo of the turtle’s Godzilla-like head and massive claws reaching for the net. The image was both fascinating and slightly intimidating, showing just how large the reptile was compared to most snapping turtles.

How Big Can Snapping Turtles Get?

Holm shared the photo with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to learn more about her aquatic visitor. The DNR estimated that the turtle was between 15 and 30 years old. Snapping turtles in Minnesota typically measure 8 to 14 inches in length and weigh between 10 and 35 pounds, but the largest ever recorded tipped the scales at an astonishing 65 pounds.

The DNR reassured Holm that snapping turtles, despite their fearsome appearance, are generally harmless to humans. Regional specialist Erica Hoaglund explained that these turtles are often misunderstood because of their defensive behavior on land. In the water, however, they are calm and prefer to avoid humans altogether.

A Social Media Sensation

After returning from their trip, Holm shared her photo with Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort, where the owners posted it on Facebook. The image quickly went viral, garnering thousands of shares and nearly a thousand comments. Resort owner Sheila Niemeyer was amazed by the public’s reaction, with many people questioning whether the photo was real.

“It really is,” Niemeyer assured skeptics. She explained that the resort’s location along the Mississippi River is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Every June, visitors can see turtles coming ashore to lay eggs, but encountering one of this size is rare.

Niemeyer hopes the post will encourage more guests to visit the resort rather than deter them. “For the most part, I don’t think you need to worry about that. But seeing the wildlife is just amazing,” she said. She also emphasized that the turtles pose no significant threat, as they are more interested in avoiding humans than interacting with them.

Understanding Snapping Turtles

According to the DNR, snapping turtles are more intimidating than dangerous. On land, they may display defensive behaviors to protect themselves, but in water, they are unlikely to engage with humans unless provoked.

“They really just want to avoid being encountered and will hide and flee if given half a chance,” Hoaglund explained. This insight should ease the minds of anyone hesitant about taking a dip in the river.

Shala’s Plans to Revisit

As for Holm, she isn’t deterred by her encounter. In fact, she’s already planning to return to the same spot next summer to check in on her “old friend.”

“I’m going to go back to that spot next year and see if he or she is still around,” she said. Her adventurous spirit and appreciation for wildlife have inspired many to embrace the unexpected joys of nature.

What about you? Would you take a swim in the Mississippi River, knowing such creatures are nearby? Share your thoughts in the comments below!