There are only two species of snapping turtles in the world currently. The Common Snapping turtle and the Alligator Snapping turtle, their family Chelydridae extends very far back in the fossil record, as far back as the Cretaceous period.

It is best to just observe them in nature startling/agitating them may cause the turtle to bite easily costing you fingers or even a hand. Do not try to pick up wild snapping turtles, they tend to be slippery due to the environment and are very strong for their size. Only very experienced handlers should attempt to keep any kind as a pet.