The common snapping turtle is a large freshwater turtle found across much of North America, known for its powerful jaws and defensive nature on land. It has a rugged, ridged shell, a long tail, and a thick neck with a sharp beak-like mouth capable of delivering a strong bite—powerful enough to break through sticks and even small bones. Despite their fierce reputation, snapping turtles are generally shy in the water and prefer to stay hidden in muddy bottoms of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.
Specifications:
- Skull Length 11.6 cm (4.6 in.)
- Skull Width 7.1 cm (2.8 in.)
- Skull Height 5.3 cm (2.1 in.)
- Shell Length 29.7 cm (11.7 in)
- Shell Width 27.3 cm (10.7 in)
- Shell Height 9.2 cm (3.6 in)
