Reptile/Amphibian
Common Snapping Turtle
Ancient, armored, and not to be messed with
Where Snappers Lurk
Snapping turtles are found across southern, central, eastern, and northern Maine in all types of permanent aquatic habitats – ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, and even bogs. Who doesn’t love a bog.
Ancient History
Snapping turtles are one of the most ancient living organisms, having evolved 60-100 million years ago. They are aggressive when on land, mainly when nesting, but shy and avoidant in the water. If you see one crossing a road, give it a wide berth and let it pass. They've been doing this longer than we have.
Quick Facts
Average Size
Large, with a rough blackish-brown carapace measuring 8-14 inches.
What's on the Menu
They’re omnivorous with a diet of fish, crayfish, aquatic invertebrates, reptiles, birds, mammals, and plants. In the water they're surprisingly elusive. On land, not so much.
The Look
Older turtles commonly grow algae on their shells and appear greenish-gray.
