Green Turtle often strays into northern waters. The
flesh of this turtle is prized by epicures. It will die if not placed on
its back, the under shell being pressed by the weight of the upper shell
against its lungs, causing suffocation. The Hawksbill Turtle is
distinguished by the hawk-like appearance of its head. It is the
smallest of the sea turtles and the one from which is obtained the
sought-after tortoise shells.

[Illustration: SEA TURTLE.]

THE SNAPPING TURTLES.

These are the largest of the fresh-water turtles. Like the snakes they
strike at their prey or their enemy, and their sharp mandibles make them
a formidable antagonist. They will pull down their prey under the water
where they always feed. The Alligator Snapping Turtle is found in the
Gulf states. A peculiarity of this reptile is the fleshy filament,
grub-like in appearance, which it has in its mouth and which acts as a
bait, attracting fish within the reach of its powerful jaws.

THE MUD TURTLES.

The Musk Turtle is a common type of the Mud Turtle and is found in
abundance in the muddy streams of the eastern, part of the United
States. It will often be taken on a fish hook. It derives its name from
the odor it gives forth. Seldom is it found out of the water. It snaps
when taken in a way which rivals the Snapping Turtle. The common Mud
Turtle is not as abundant as the Musk turtle to which it is similar in
habit, crawling along the muddy bottoms of ponds and rivers. The under
shell of the Mud Turtles is much broader than that of the Musk turtles.
The Banded Mud Turtle, found in Georgia and Florida, has three yellow
stripes or "bands" on its shell. The Yellow-necked Mud Turtle gets its
name from its bright yellow neck.

THE TERRAPINS.

The Painted Terrapin or Pond Turtle is brightly colored. The under shell
is yellow and the upper shell is bordered with mottled red. It is found
in the eastern United States. You may frequently see it taking a sunning
on a partially submerged log, diving into the water upon your approach.
It feeds on insects, small fishes and water weeds. In your aquarium it
will eat small pieces of beef, fish, worms or tender greens. The Chicken
Turtle or Long-necked Terrapin is found in the southeastern states. The
Yellow-bellied Terrapin is found from Virginia to Georgia. It is one of
the terrapins that are sold in the markets. Many may be seen there,
especially in Charleston. The Cumberland Terrapin may be known by the