Snapping turtles are cold-blooded and can absorb oxygen underwater in winter via a cloaca (their butt). This cloacal respiration helps them survive while brumating. Their shells neutralize acid buildup, and they can be aggressive on land. Known for snapping jaws, snapping turtles can’t fully hide in their shells. Two species exist in Illinois: the common snapping turtle and the endangered alligator snapping turtle, which are the largest of its species, weighing at 150 pounds.

Beavers are hardworking rodents known for building dams and lodges near water. They are the largest rodent in North America and can weigh up to 90 pounds. Beavers use strong orange teeth to cut trees and eat only plants. Baby beavers, called kits, can swim at birth. They live in family colonies and use their scaly tails for swimming, balance, and warning signals. Beavers can stay underwater for 15 minutes and have waterproof fur to help them thrive in wet habitats.