Alligator snapping turtle  (Macroclemys temminckii)

Endemic to the southeastern region of the U.S., occurring in the river system that drains into the Gulf of Mexico (1) (2) (9).

A freshwater species generally found in the deep water of large rivers, canals, lakes and swamps, though hatchlings and juveniles usually live in small streams (9). These turtles seldom leave the water, with generally only nesting females venturing onto land, although males have been known to bask (10).