New York State Reptile Rescued From Beechmont Lake Roadway
A police officer removed a large snapping turtle from a busy street in New Rochelle, citing the species' long path to maturity.
By Riya Zhao ·
Snapping turtles are New York’s official state reptile, a title they earned in 2006. On November 7, 2026, one such animal required a rescue from a roadway in Westchester County.
Police Officer Creazzo of the New Rochelle Police Department removed the turtle from the pavement near Beechmont Lake. The animal was found off Pine Brook Boulevard. The officer carried the reptile to safety. The New Rochelle Police Benevolent Association posted images of the event to Instagram. The union described the officer as a wildlife rescuer. They noted that members wear many hats in the profession.
The incident fits a known pattern for the species. Common snapping turtles, or Chelydra serpentina, are the largest freshwater turtles native to New York. They typically inhabit ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. They prefer shallow water with muddy bottoms. These animals often travel overland. This behavior is common among females seeking nesting sites. Crossing roads exposes them to vehicle traffic.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation provides guidance on these encounters. Turtles usually have shells between 10 and 16 inches long. Larger specimens can exceed 20 inches in shell length. Weights can top 35 pounds. The specific turtle rescued on November 7 had unknown dimensions. It displayed the species' standard features, including a large head, a jagged shell, and a long tail.
Wildlife officials advise caution when handling these animals. Snapping turtles are generally defensive on land. They may extend their long necks to snap. Their beaks contain no teeth, but their bite is powerful. Motorists should only help a turtle if it is safe to do so. The animal should be moved in the direction it was already traveling. This prevents the turtle from turning back across the road.
Protecting adult turtles is a priority for conservation efforts. These reptiles take many years to reach reproductive maturity. Their eggs and hatchlings face high mortality rates. Losing an adult reduces the population's ability to recover. The turtle is an omnivore. It eats fish, small animals, and carrion. It spends much of its life submerged in water.
Officer Creazzo completed the rescue without reported injury. The turtle was returned to the area near the lake. The New Rochelle Police Benevolent Association shared the photos to showcase the officer's work. The animal is one of many common to Westchester County.
