Southern Leopard Frog (Rana sphenocephala)

I love how frogs can have just their eyes and nostrils above the water line while the rest of them is hidden below the surface. 



juvenile southern leopard frog (Rana sphenocephala)

Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

The most feared snapping turtle in the United States is usually considered to be the alligator snapping turtle. They just look mean (and they are).


Second place is awarded to the common snapping turtle. They have the same generally bad disposition, the same ambush hunting techniques, and they are big enough to remove part of your hand if not just a few fingers. They will make short work of it too.




common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina)



snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) underwater view

Whirligig Beetle, or Gyrinidae Beetle, (Dineutus sp)

Small and fast moving, these little aquatic beetles often swim in agitated circular patterns. They are so adept at avoiding predators, that getting close to one can be quite a challenge. Seen in detail, they have a surprising beauty and personality. 


whirligig beetles also called Gyrinidae beetles, (Dineutus sp)


They have divided compound eyes. The upper part of the eye sees above water while the lower part of the eye can see under the surface.



swimming whirligig beetle also called Gyrinidae beetle, (Dineutus sp)



swimming whirligig beetle also called Gyrinidae beetle, (Dineutus sp)