Macrochelys (Macroclemys) temminckii

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Florida distribution: northern Florida into panhandle.

Identification: up to 71 cm. Superficially similar to the Common Snapper can be distinguished by larger size, hooked beak, keels on the carapace, extra scutes on plastron (where it meets the marginals) and carapace (2+ supramarginals between marginals and costals), and lure in mouth. The tail of the Alligator Snapping Turtle doesn't have the bony knobs that the Common Snapper does.

You are not allowed to buy, sell, or trade this species (i.e. no commercial activity) in Florida. Even if specimens originate from outside the state. 

One of the characteristics that helps tell the Alligator Snapper from the Common Snapper is the prominent keels on the carapace.

The lure is visible in this picture.

Sub-adult Alligator Snapper showing the lure and its camouflaged mouth lining.

Plastron showing scute pattern that sets it apart from the Common Snapper.