A snap decision led to a big catch. <\/p>\n
A valiant lifeguard plucked a massive alligator snapping turtle from the waters of a Washington state park \u2014 then posed triumphantly with the invasive creature.<\/p>\n
The exotic species, the largest freshwater turtle in the US, was found under a dock last week at Juanita Beach Park in Kirkland, a Seattle suburb located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, according to Kirkland Parks and Community Service. <\/p>\n
The exotic species, the largest freshwater turtle in the US, was found under a dock last week at Juanita Beach Park in Kirkland. Kirkland Parks and Community Services<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile they may look interesting, snapping turtles are invasive and can be aggressive,\u201d the park service shared in a Facebook post Monday.<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cTheir powerful jaws can cause serious injury, so if you see one, please keep your distance and alert a lifeguard or park staff.\u201d<\/p>\n The park is located in a Seattle suburb on the eastern shore of Lake Washington. Mauro \u2013 stock.adobe.com<\/p>\n Kirkland lifeguard supervisor Dani pictured hoisting the hulking dinosaur-like reptile. Kirkland Parks and Community Services<\/p>\n Photos showed<\/a> Kirkland lifeguard supervisor Dani hoisting the hulking dinosaur-like reptile<\/a> as it bared its snarling jaws wide open. <\/p>\n \u201cThanks to Dani, our lifeguard team, ACO Arnold and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for keeping the beach fun and safe for everyone!\u201d the government agency said. <\/p>\n