Question: The difference between common and alligator snapping turtle ?

Answer: The shell of alligator snapping turtle has three distinctive ridges, while the common snapper's shells are smoother. The alligator snappers head is triangular and the jaws are very hooked. One of the most distinctive features of the alligator snapping turtle is the fleshy lure located at the bottom of its mouth, easily spotted when the turtle opens its jaws. The alligator snapper is the only turtle in the world with such a 'device'. With its jaws open the turtle fools fish into believing its lure is a live worm. Once a fish enters this trap to take a bite - it becomes a meal itself. The common snapper does not have such a lure. To find out more about differences between common and alligator snappers please click here. Thanks for asking! Stan

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