Florida Softshell Turtle

Florida Softshell Turtle

When I moved to Florida a year and a half ago, I began seeing these strange-looking turtles.  I found out they are Florida Softshell Turtles.  I was amazed with their snorkel-like noses and shells that looked like they were made of wet leather.  They are pretty common at the places I visit, and they're always a joy to watch.  On two occasions, I've seen broken shells from these turtles that had been obviously caught and eaten by predators, though I don't know for sure what predator caught them.  These turtles grow very large, and they can bite, so whatever caught them must have been pretty substantial--I'm guessing they were alligators.  At any rate, here's a couple photos of the Florida Softshell Turtle.

Florida Softshell Turtle