Take 5: Stupendous Snapping Turtles

At this time of year, snapping turtles are searching for good places to lay their eggs. Keep an eye out for them as they try to cross roads. Remember to give them plenty of space; they can be defensive if threatened, so treat them with respect. This collection of images from past editions of our Photo Contest shows these often misunderstood animals in all of their craggy beauty.

Read more about turtles crossing roads and laying eggs in yards, and discover all the turtle species in Massachusetts.