Snapping Turtles

While working outside of our barn, preparing for a concrete project, I noticed some movement in the leaves next to a barn wall. The movement was caused by a baby snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina).



Unlike the adult Eastern Painter Turtles (Chrysemys picta picta), which are easily handled, snapping turtles are noted for their nasty disposition when out of the water. The snapping turtle's highly mobile head and neck with powerful beak-like jaws have bitten many unlucky handlers.

Even baby snapping turtles are easily identified by their long tails and the rows of raised ridges on the top of their shell. Snapping turtles can live for over 30 years and weigh over 35 pounds.