Spiny Softshell Turtles certainly are unique. As you know, most turtles have hard shells, but this species has a soft, flat, leather-like carapace. It has an elongated snout with a pig-like nose, and its feet are completely webbed. The front edge of the shell has small spines giving the turtle its name. It is one of the largest freshwater turtles in North America. They usually live on the bottom of a creek or lake, burying themselves in the mud for protection, so it was unusual to see this one at the surface. As for the diet of Spiny Softshell Turtles, they will eat whatever passes by that will fit in their mouths.
Photo of Spiny Softshell Turtle taken at the Creek off Villager Drive.
