Class: ReptaliaSubclass: Anapsida
Order:Testudines
Suborder: Cryptodira
Genera: Chelydra
Species: Serpentina
Class: Reptalia
Subclass: Anapsida
Order:Testudines
Suborder: Cryptodira
Genera: Chelydra
Species: Serpentina
As the name suggests, this is one turtle that commands respect. When disturbed, it does not hesitate to defend itself, but will strike with amazing speed and force. Because it is a large animal, its powerful jaws are capable of tearing flesh quite badly.
Why doesn't the snapping turtle protect itself by simply hiding in its shell?
For good reason; it simply cannot fit!
Photo by Hoberg and Gause
This is a large turtle ( 20-40 cm). Adults may weigh more than 70 lbs. It has a large head; the upper jaw is slightly hooked. The skin is rough and warty; greyish-black in color. The carapace has 
three low keels, prominant in the young, but disappearing as the turtle matures.The carapace is darker than the rest of the body; its color varies from tan, brown, olive, to black. The back-edge of the carapace is saw-toothed.The plastron is small and cross-shaped. The tail is quite long and resembles that of a crocodile (saw-edged).
Turtle Fact:
The turtle shell consists of an upper (carapace) and a lower (plastron) shell, connected at the sides by bony bridges. The vertebrate column and ribs are fused to the carapace; this means that the shoulder and hip sockets are located inside the ribcage!
Turtle Fact:
The snapping turtle pulls its head into its shell by curving its neck vertically, in an S-shape.
Page 3.
Activity
Reproduction.