Snapping turtles are reptiles found throughout the freshwaters of North America, recognized for their large size. These aquatic animals spend most of their lives submerged in ponds, rivers, and swamps. The coloration of a snapping turtle is not uniform but varies widely, serving as effective natural camouflage against the dark, murky bottoms of their habitats. Their color depends on the two main species and the environmental factors that constantly modify their appearance.
Primary Coloration of the Common Snapper
The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) typically exhibits a base coloration of dark hues. The upper shell, or carapace, generally ranges from deep olive green to dark brown or black. This dark, often mottled coloring helps the turtle blend into the silty lake and river bottoms where it rests. The skin on the head, neck, and limbs is similarly dark, often appearing gray, black, or dark brown, sometimes with yellow or tan accents near the shell. The underside, known as the plastron, is small and usually a lighter shade of tan or yellow.
Distinct Coloring of the Alligator Snapper
The Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) presents a distinct appearance due to its massive head and its shell’s three prominent, longitudinal ridges. Its base color is typically a deep brown, dark gray, or black. This species is the largest freshwater turtle in North America. A unique feature is the coloration of its lingual lure, a small, worm-like appendage on its tongue used to attract fish. This lure is often described as pink or gray, and in hatchlings, it can appear bright red. The turtle holds its mouth open, revealing the lure against the dark, gray-brown lining of its mouth, which is unlike the pink interior of the common snapper’s mouth.
Environmental Factors Influencing Appearance
The true color of a snapping turtle is frequently masked by external influences, making individuals appear different than their base coloration suggests. One significant factor is the growth of epibiotic algae on the shell, which often gives the carapace a greenish or mossy tint. This layer of algae enhances the turtle’s ability to remain unnoticed on the substrate. The accumulation of mud and silt also contributes to the turtle’s perceived color, as individuals often rest buried in soft sediment with only their eyes and nostrils exposed. Age also introduces variation; juveniles often have more pronounced shell peaks, or keels, and may display slightly brighter accents that fade into the solid, darker colors of a mature adult.