Alligator Snapping Turtle   Order: Chelonia Family: Chelydridae
Genus/species: Macroclemys temminckii    Alligator snapping
turtles spend most of their time in the water, and generally
only nesting females venture on land. However, males have been
known to bask. They are solitary, and there is very little
social structure or parental care. The turtles stay submerged
for 40 to 50 minutes at a time, and only go to the surface for
air. They are so motionless under water that algae may cover
their backs and make the turtles almost invisible to fish.
Distribution and Habitat:  Alligator snapping turtles are native
to the southeastern region of the United States. They are
confined to the river systems that drain into the Gulf of
Mexico.  They generally live in the deep water of large rivers,
canals, lakes, and swamps. Hatchlings and juveniles usually live
in small streams.  Diet in the Wild:  The alligator snapping
turtle is both a scavenger and an active hunter. It most
actively forages for food during the night.