Elaine saw it.
It was a big snapping turtle under the Six Mile Creek bridge on the Fort Erie Friendship Trail.
This is snapping turtle territory. Over the years I have seen them here. Yes, I had my camera ready. Eventually it reappeared on the south side of the bridge. It disappeared too quickly for me. However, I share a Wendy Booth photo with you. I have seen this mammal snap a thumb-sized branch in two so easily. Beware of his jaws. Snappers eat carrion, crayfish, aquatic plants, fish, birds, small mammals and even a human finger! Some consider snapper meat to be a delicacy and excellent soups are prepared from it.
This snapper was well over a foot in length. It had a huge head with powerful jaws. Remember, it can not withdraw its head or feet for protection into its shell like our painted turtle.
Vulnerable? Yes.