Common Snapping Turtle

Description:

I at first only saw the shell when I came upon this turtle while kayaking. Not even the head was apparent. I thought it was the remains of a snapper. I gently went to lift it with my paddle-blade when I saw it heave itself up and out of the muddy river-bank and turn toward me. (It was actually heading for the water.) It was then that I realized they bask themselves in sunlight this way.

Habitat:

Shallow ponds, lakes or streams. Can also, although not as commonly, be found at the heads of estuarine rivers in brackish water.

Notes:

I always carry a small point-and-shoot with me while kaykaing. Shot using a Kodak EasyShare CX6330. Taken in the Paskamansett River in my hometown.