WEST MARLBOROUGH: Snapper time

I was taking a break from planting my flower garden (finally!) and glanced over at the marsh across the way. Next to the little creek was an unusual-looking black item, and I walked over to take a closer look. It was a snapping turtle, about 16 inches long. I couldn't get too close to him -- I was already sinking into the soggy ground -- but he glared at me and opened his jaws as a warning. I retreated to the garden, and no more than 30 seconds later, when I glanced back, he was completely gone. He must have burrowed into the mud, leaving not a trace.