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The common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is a species of large freshwater turtle in the family Chelydridae. Its natural range extends from southeastern Canada, southwest to the edge of the Rocky Mountains, as far east as Nova Scotia and Florida.
25-47. cm inch. The Common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is a species of large freshwater turtle. It is noted for its combative disposition when out of the water with its powerful beak-like jaws, and highly mobile head and neck (hence the specific epithet serpentina, meaning " snake -like").
Upon hatching, the size of the common snapping turtle is just 1.1 inches (2.9 cm). At this size, it is a piece of cake to tell their age because they are so tiny. Within its first year, the turtle will increase in mass to become three to five times its original size.
Identification: Chelydra serpentina is a robust turtle with a carapace (upper shell) length of 203-494 mm (8-over 19 in) (Ernst et al., 1994; Conant and Collins, 1998). The maximum weight, measured for an individual in captivity, is 39 kg (86 lbs) (Conant and Collins, 1998).
The snapping turtle normally has a shell length ranging from 8 -18 1/2"and has a tail nearly as long as the shell. The tail has saw-toothed keels on it. The shell ranges in color from dark brown to tan and can even be black in some individuals.
It is distinguished by a saw-edged crest on the upper side of its tail and averages 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) in shell length and 4.5–16 kg (10–35 pounds) in weight. When young it has three longitudinal ridges on the upper shell; these become worn down with time. The common snapping turtle is often found buried in mud in shallow water.
Genus: Chelydra. Species: C. serpentina. Common Names. Common Snapping Turtle. Identification. Description. The common snapping turtle has a rugged appearance with a dark brown to black shell that features serrations along the tail. Its large head is equipped with strong, hooked jaws, and it has a long tail with saw-like ridges. Sexual Dimorphism.
Description: The common snapping turtle is a large turtle, ranging in size from 8 to 14 in (20-36 cm) with a record length of 19.3 in (49 cm). Their average weights range from 10 to 35 lbs (4.5 – 16 kg), with a record of 75 lbs (34 kg).
Size: An adult common snapping turtle can be as much as 25 – 47 centimeters (9.8 -19 inches) in carapace length. Weight: These turtles can weigh up to 10 – 35 pounds on reaching adulthood. Carapace (Upper shell): These turtles have a dark and ridged carapace.
Adult common snapping turtles can range in size from 8 to 18 inches in length, with some individuals weighing over 30 pounds! In this article, we’ll explore the factors that influence the growth and size of these turtles, as well as some interesting facts about their biology and behavior.