Snapping Turtle

Of all the interesting creatures indigenous to North America, the snapping turtle must rank right up there. They are also the largest fresh-water turtle.http://www.critterzone.com/magazineresource/common-snapping-turtle-Chelydra-serpentina.htm Snapping turtles are hunters, and very aggressive when antagonized. Basically unique to this species, they snap at prey and enemies, much like a snake would strike, with remarkable speed. This snapping behavior is what gives the turtle its name. The speed combined with the massive muscular jaws and sharp mandibles make it a formidable creature and one to be avoided. The largest of the snapping turtles can bite off a human finger and, in some cases, a human hand with very little difficulty. They have a big head, a sinister look if you are not used to it, and a long tail to help steer in the water.

There are two primary species of snapping turtle – the common snapping turtle and the alligator snapping turtle. An adult alligator snapping turtle can weigh up to 140 pounds.

Snapping turtles range in habitat from Southern Canada all the way southward through Mexico to Equador. Unlike its smaller cousins, like the box turtle, the snapping turtle does not tuck its entire body inside its shell. It rarely has a need to do so.

Snapping turtles are largely aquatic and have big webbed feet for this environment. Other turtles like the box turtle live near the water, but not in it full-time. It’s feet are designed for walking and swimming, quite different than the snapping turtle.

Other North American turtles include the American box turtle and the Louisiana red-eared slider which are common and charming pets. The two species of snapping turtle are the only members of the family Chelydridae.http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/snapping_turtle.aspx

It should go without saying that few people have pet snapping turtles. However, there are reptile specialists who do know how to keep and care for snapping turtles.