Apr 2, 2015: Common Snapping Turtle

While passing Pond J (diminished to two pools) I noticed this set of tracks (above left) entering the south pool.  I immediately thought "turtle tracks".  Another set left the north end and headed towards the north pool.  Then I spotted a dark object in the water at the north end.  This Common Snapping Turtle (above right) emerged from the water and started towards Weir H/J.

Despite what you may have heard, one should never hold snapping turtles by the tail.  The spine may be damaged by doing so. 4/1/15 (Wolf. Oesterreich)