New Jersey Scuba Diving

Snapping Turtle

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Snapping Turtle

Chelydra serpentina

Size: to 15" (body)

Habitat: hides on the bottom in any type of water

Notes: Generally docile and easily approached in the water, but should be treated with respect for its powerful bite. This turtle can easily amputate a finger or toe and becomes pugnacious when landed. If you have the patience, try to see how long this turtle can go between breaths. A lot longer than you or me, that's for sure.

Snapping Turtle
In the water, these turtles are inoffensive, but don't tempt fate!
Snapping Turtle

On land is a different story. I pulled over and used a stick to push this nasty little guy off the highway. He was not the least bit appreciative, and snapped at me repeatedly - the long neck gives this turtle a very quick snake-like motion. Spring seems to be the season for Snapping Turtle wanderlust, and they turn up in the darndest places.

Accessories

Here are some ideas on minor yet important details that get little consideration. These topics are especially important to gear-laden New Jersey divers; much less so to unencumbered warm water divers.

A light and a knife are the first two non-essential accessories that you should get. Actually, neither one is non-essential, and only a fool would dive around here without both. Goody bags are used to carry booty from the sea. This includes food, treasure, and a lot of rusty junk that you're going to pick up because it is there. They can also be used to carry tools down with you.

2016 Update

Knives and bags haven't changed much in twenty years, but lights sure have. That section has been re-written to reflect modern technology. Nothing else new here, except that solid brass snaps have gotten harder to find and a lot more expensive. So if you find one on the bottom, leave it there for me!

More: Accessories ...

Disclaimer:

I make no claim as to the accuracy, validity, or appropriateness of any information found in this website. I will not be responsible for the consequences of any action that is based upon information found here. Scuba diving is an adventure sport, and as always, you alone are responsible for your own safety and well being.

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