The Snapping turtle
Snapping turtles are a frequent predator of ducklings and duck eggs. They are nocturnal and spend most of the time underwater. It often buries itself in the mud with only its nostrils and eyes showing, waiting for unsuspecting prey. However, individuals of all sizes can be found on land, especially nesting females. Snapping turtles tend to be very shy in the water, but on land they are very aggressive and will give a painful bite with their powerful, sharp jaws.
Snapping turtles are almost entirely aquatic and can be found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats, preferably with slow-moving water and a soft muddy or sandy bottom. They inhabit almost any permanent or semi-permanent body of water, including marshes, creeks, swamps, bogs, pools, lakes, streams, rivers, and impoundments.
Set lines : Snapper turtles are sometimes taken on set lines baited with cut fish or other fresh meat. One recommended device is made by tying 4 or 5 feet (1.2 or 1.5 m) of line to a stout flexible pole, 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 m) long. About 12 inches (30.5 cm) of No. 16 steel wire is placed between the line and the hook, preferably a stout hook about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across between barb and shaft. The end of the pole is pushed into the bank far enough to make it secure at an angle that will hold the bait a few inches (cm) above the bottom.
