KIRKLAND, Wash. – A local lifeguard helped safely remove a snapping turtle that was found underneath the dock at Juanita Beach Park.
Kirkland Parks and Community Services (KPCS) took to social media to show appreciation for Dani the lifeguard.
“Thanks to Dani, our lifeguard team, ACO Arnold and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for keeping the beach fun and safe for everyone!” KPCS wrote.
Snapping turtles are considered invasive species in the Pacific Northwest, and can be aggressive. The reptile found in question was an alligator snapping turtle, according to KPCS, which are the largest freshwater turtle species in the U.S.
Alligator snapping turtles are typically found in the U.S. South along the Gulf coast.
