11th March, 2024
ANUPA MUKHERJEE
● Size: Can grow up to 15 feet long, with some reaching 1,000 pounds. ● Habitat: Swamps, lakes, and rivers throughout the southeastern US. ● Watch Out For: Their powerful bite and surprising bursts of speed on land.
● Size: The longest native snake in the US, reaching lengths of over 8 feet. ● Habitat: Found in the coastal plain of the southeastern US, it prefers scrub and pine forests. ● Remarkable Fact: Non-venomous, this powerful constrictor is a significant predator.
● Size: The most giant sea turtle in the world, reaching up to 6 feet long and over 1,500 pounds. ● Habitat: Oceans worldwide, but comes to US coastlines (Atlantic and Pacific) to lay eggs. ● Conservation Corner: Endangered due to habitat loss and fishing gear entanglement.
● Size: Can reach shell lengths of over 18 inches and weigh up to 35 pounds. ● Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds throughout the eastern US. ● Watch Out: For Their surprisingly powerful bite! These turtles will defend themselves if handled.
● Size: Shells average 10-15 inches in length, reaching weights of over 15 pounds. ● Habitat: Found in dry, sandy habitats in the southeastern US, especially pine forests. ● Remarkable Fact: "Keystone Species" – their burrows shelter over 350 other animals!
● Size: The largest venomous snake in the US, reaching lengths up to 8 feet. ● Habitat: Pine forests, coastal plains, and swamps of the southeastern US. ● Important Note: Venomous and potentially dangerous. Admire from a safe distance and listen for their warning rattle.
● Size: Largest native lizard in the US, reaching up to 2 feet long. ● Habitat: Deserts and arid scrublands of the southwestern US and northern Mexico. ● Remarkable Fact: The only venomous lizard in the US.
● Size: Can reach lengths of up to 6 feet and weigh over 15 pounds. ● Habitat: Native to Central and South America, but now invasive in Florida.