Sunken Gardens Is Saddened By The Unexpected Passing Of Mac, The Snapping Turtle

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — An alligator snapping turtle that called Sunken Gardens his home since the 1960s died unexpectedly Monday, a news release said.

“The Sunken Gardens family, and especially the animal care team members are deeply shocked and saddened by this unexpected loss," Dwayn Biggs, supervisor of Sunken Gardens, said. "Mac showed no signs of injury, illness or distress prior to his death."

Mac lived to be more than 50 years old, but his exact age is unknown. Guests at Sunken Gardens knew him as the giant turtle in his exhibit located near one of the most attractive areas at the botanical garden, staff members said. Mac will live on in a children's book, "Sophie and Zack at Sunken Gardens," he is featured in. The book is by Robin Robson Gonzalez and funded by the Sunken Gardens Forever Foundation.

The official cause of Mac’s death will not be known until after the completion of a necropsy, or the animal equivalent of an autopsy, being conducted through the Gardens’ veterinarian team. Results will be available within the coming weeks.

“Mac was an important part of Sunken Gardens and a special turtle,” Biggs said. “We share the heartbreak with the animal care team who knew him best, as well as our admiration for their outstanding commitment to Mac and to all the animals in our care.”

A video of Mac in the water entertaining guests at Sunken Gardens can be viewed here.