Common Snapping Turtle

Description:

This turtle is long on tail, but short on temper. Its tail has a row of jagged scales down the back of it and it is nearly as long as the turtle's carapace (upper shell). Its carapace can vary from light brown to black and it has a saw-toothed back edge. You'll know when you see one of these critters. The snapper has a long neck, and long powerful jaws. It's also aggressive which is how it earned its name.

Habitat:

Marshy area near a small-sized lake

Notes:

This little guy was basking along the edge of the bike trail. We were able to get pretty close to get pictures.