How to Identify Common Snapping Turtle

To identify Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Carapace ranges from dark brown, olive, or black, often covered in algae. Plastron is typically yellowish or tan. Skin is dark brown to black.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, pointed head with a strong, hooked upper jaw (beak-like), Long, thick tail with three rows of prominent, saw-toothed keels or tubercles, Rough, often serrated posterior margin of the carapace, Small plastron that does not cover the entire underside, leaving limbs exposed, Powerful, muscular legs with webbed feet and strong claws

Dorsal fin

N/A (reptile, not a fish)

Tail fin

Long, muscular tail with prominent dorsal keels, often as long as or longer than the carapace.

Pectoral fin

N/A (reptile, not a fish)

Distinctive fins

N/A (reptile, not a fish)

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Carapace

   Rough, often algae-covered, with three faint keels (more pronounced in juveniles). Posterior margin is distinctly serrated.

2. 2

   Plastron

   Small and cross-shaped, leaving much of the limbs and sides exposed. This is a key differentiator from other large turtles like the Alligator Snapping Turtle.

3. 3

   Head and Jaws

   Large, triangular head with a pointed snout and a powerful, hooked upper jaw. The eyes are positioned laterally.

4. 4

   Tail

   Long and muscular, often as long as or longer than the carapace, with prominent, saw-toothed keels along its dorsal surface.

5. 5

   Behavior

   Highly aggressive and defensive when encountered on land, often striking out with a powerful bite. In water, they are generally more docile and will attempt to swim away.

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