As Anita and I were headed out on a recent, late day errand, we were stopped in our tracks by this stunning snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) that had taken a liking to our driveway. I tried to inquire why it was so far from a pond, but it took the fifth. This is a youngster, as these can reach 50 pounds at maturity. They are omnivores, with about 30% of their diet coming from plants and the rest from small aquatic creatures.
A handsome fella indeed. Do they overwinter in soil or water?
I have one that travels a fair piece to lay eggs in the compost heap.
Hi Tony,
Snappers like to lay their eggs where it’s high and dry. Don’t know if this was a recent mom now heading back to water or a recent hatchling.