Eastern Snapping Turtle: Chelydra serpentina

Distribution: Southern Saskatchewan to Southern Quebec as well as Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Size: Carapace measures up to 20" in adults.

Distinguishing Characteristics: Green, brown or black skin. Shell is small compared to overall body size and often covered with algae. Neck, legs and tail are thick. Tail has spikes down its length.

Habitat: Lakes and other slow-moving freshwater habitats, preferrably with extensive vegetation and sandy or muddy bottoms.

Diet: Invertebrates, fish, amphibians, vegetation and small reptiles.

Snapping Turtle

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