I never know what I will see when I visit Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. I encountered this large Eastern Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina serpentina) right in the middle of one of the paths at the refuge last Friday. I generally see snapping turtles in the water or sunning themselves at the water’s edge. I only recall a single instance when I have seen a snapping turtle this far out of the water and on that occasion it was digging a hole and getting ready to lay eggs. I wonder if that was why this one was on dry land.
The turtle looked like it was relaxing, but I gave it a wide berth after I snapped its photo, wanting to make sure that I was the only one snapping.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Right, so you had to make it snappy!
🙂
Wow – that looks huge! I saw one in a forested area once, pretty far removed from the water. Making it snappy, indeed! 🙂
Benjamin has never seen a real turtle of any kind. They are not usually seen in our area of New England. I remember them being abundant in Pa. when I was growing up. He was quite amazed by this Snapping Turtle’s enlarged picture. “His head is little, but his feet are big and strong. He doesn’t look happy, better not touch him.” When I told them that they will snap at you with their powerful beaks, he said “Yikes”! Thank-you, Mr. Mike!!
Looks huge and to be avoided!
I am glad I had a long telephoto lens. I have relocated small turtles that I found in the middle of a road, but there was no way that I was going to put my hands anywhere near those jaws, claws, and tail.
Great portrait. I have not yet encountered a wild snapping turtle, which might be a good thing I suppose depending on the circumstances of the meeting.
Thanks, Laura. I have seen snapping turtles quite a few times and have never seen the slightest amount of aggression toward me, but I would rather be safe than sorry.
Good idea for giving it a wide berth! Great shot!
I’ve heard that they have long necks and can surprise you by being able to reach when you think they can’t.
I’m betting that it was laying eggs, Ours will start doing the same soon.
Very cool!!!