This is an Alligator Snapping Turtle. This is why you don’t go swimming in Florida rivers or lakes unless you can see the bottom.

#the person holding this turtle is actually in danger holding it even #if it chose- that turtle could stretch it’s neck to bite the hand holding it #they have terrifying long necks that can reach nearly anywhere around their body

^This is NOT TRUE. Common snapping turtles do have very long necks and can reach most of their body with either claws or mouth…except for right behind the head. The two safe ways to hold a snapper are with one hand directly behind the head and one hand directly above the tail or with two hands holding the shell on either side of the tail. Still do not attempt without proper training/experience though.

Edit: I believe the one in this video is actually an alligator snapping turtle which have comparatively short necks and don’t do lunging, snapping bites the same way common snapping turtles do (which is why the guy has to put the item in the turtle’s mouth for it to bite).

the-awkward-turt is 100% right! I worked with snappers all summer and I’ve been helping them cross the road since I was a little kid… Best strategy is behind the head and above the tail, or both hands on either side of the tail.

Still, if you’re inexperienced and you have to help one cross the road, get them to bite onto a stick and (gently) drag them, or better yet, just use a shovel to pick them up!