A Little Bit More
If you were to stumble upon this pancake-like turtle, without knowing about softshells, you might think it was deformed; afterall, what happened to its shell! Although its shell is soft and unlike typical turtles, this animal is well-adapted and thrives in its natural environment. Despite being rather numerous, especially in the Midwest, the softshell turtle isn’t often seen. There are 3 different species of softshells in North America and they’re found mostly in the center of the country from about the Great Lakes south to the Gulf.
Softshells are especially known for their shyness, probably why they’re not often encountered. They don’t leave the water often except to sun themselves occasionally or lay eggs. Even when they do climb out of the water to sun, they usually orient themselves for a quick getaway in case of danger. Although we think of turtles as especially slow animals, one encounter with one of these guys soon dispels that notion – they’re really fast on land and especially fast in the water.
Softshell turtles are basically carnivores feeding on crayfish, fish, insect larvae, mollusks, and frogs. Although shy, this turtle can be aggressive when captured so it should not be handled by anyone other than an expert.
Activities
Science – Photos
Objectives: Better look at softshells
Materials: Online access
Since softshell turtles are so unusual, I thought it helpful to provide some internet photo options to see more of these interesting turtles. Take a look at some of these sites.
Good softshell photos
Good info on softshell turtles
Info on softshell turtles
Key Concepts
Behavior and Regulation, Identification, Structures and Functions
Questions
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