Spiny Softshell Turtles have small, conical projections on the anterior of the carapace and the male Spiny Softshell has light spots and/or dark ocelli (eye-shaped) patterns on the carapace. Both ...

These dark-colored softshell turtles are plain, flat, and smooth, with no distinctive colors or patterns. They inhabit most areas in Texas, except for the eastern half, in most bodies of water ...

Two less common local turtles are the Smooth and Spiny Softshell. Adult Softshell Turtles can be large, approximately 21 inches, and have a flatter profile than other turtles.

The softshell has no “scutes” or scales. The “spiny” part of the name refers to a ridge of spines at the anterior end of the non-rigid shell. The turtle may live to an age of 50 years or more.

A Texas spiny softshell turtle. (Ernie Cowan / For The San Diego Union-Tribune) I must admit, at my seasoned age, I still feel like a kid when I’m tromping around in mud at a scruffy pond.

Discover the elusive spiny softshell turtle of southeast Missouri. Unlike red-eared sliders, it suns on dirt banks and has a smooth, flexible shell. Learn more about this unique creature and its ...