A snapping turtle was found burying her eggs on the riverbank.

Footage shows the rear end of the turtle slowly covering the eggs she had laid in a nest dug into the soil in New Jersey on May 11.

To prevent human disturbance, caution tape was placed around the area.

Snapping turtles rely on instinct when laying their eggs. Using their back legs, they dig a hole in soft, sandy ground. Once the eggs are laid, the mother turtle buries them and leaves without further care.

These reptiles are not known for maternal protection. The eggs incubate for 10 to 18 weeks, depending on weather and temperature.

The temperature also determines the sex of the hatchlings.

Once the young turtles hatch, they dig their way out of the nest and make a perilous journey to the water. Along the way, they face threats from predators such as birds, raccoons, and fish, which pose significant risks to their survival.

Snapping turtles are a type of freshwater turtle known for their strong jaws and powerful bites, though they are not typically aggressive unless provoked or threatened.