Alligator Snapping Turtle, Macrochelys lacertina 



Distinguished from the common snapping turtle by the absence of the broad plates under the tail, 

 the yellowish color, and much larger size. Reaches a weight of 140 pounds. Inhabits rivers empty- 

 ing into the Gulf of Mexico 



Photos from "The Reptile Book," by Ditmars. Copyright, 1907, by Doubleday, Page & Co. 



Head of the Alligator Turtle, Macrochelys lacertina 

 The jaws of a large specimen could readily amputate a man's hand or foot 



