Snapping Turtle
(Chelydra
serpentina) |
 |
DESCRIPTION: 8-18 1/2" (20-47
cm). The familiar "snapper," with massive head and powerful
jaws. Carapace tan to dark brown, often masked with algae or
mud, bearing 3 rows of weak to prominent keels, and serrated
toward the back. Plastron yellow to tan, unpatterned, relatively
small, and cross-shaped in outline. Tail as long as carapace;
with saw-toothed keels. Tubercles on neck. Wild specimens range
to 45 lbs. (20.5 kg). Some fattened captives exceed 75 lbs. (34
kg).Warning! Do not
handle, can cause serious injury.
STATUS:
RANGE: Alberta to Nova Scotia, south to the
Gulf.
HABITAT: Freshwater with soft mud bottoms
SPECIAL HABITAT:
FOOD: Invertebrates, carrion, water plants,
fish, birds and small mammals. |
