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Chelydra serpentina
Large freshwater turtle with muscular build and ridged carapaces (though ridges tend to be more pronounced in younger individuals). The carapace (upper shell) length in adulthood may be nearly 50 cm (20 in), though 25–47 cm (9.8–19 in), is more common. C. serpentina usually weighs 4.5–16 kg (9.9–35 lb).
Common habitats are shallow ponds, shallow lakes, or streams. Some may inhabit brackish environments, such as estuaries. This juvenile (about the size of a baseball) was photographed near a farm pond in the Edgefield County, South Carolina.
Snapping turtles have "fierce" dispositions; however, when encountered in the water, they usually slip quietly away from any disturbance.
Spotted on May 5, 2009
Submitted on Feb 18, 2013
1 Comment
Nice portrait Ken. It's not too often when you can call a snapping turtle cute, but this little guy sure is!