February 11, 2023

I am a Florida Softshell Turtle

I have a light plastron with a dark carapace above

I have webbed toes, and a pig-snout shaped nose

And a face only a mother could love.

Location: Gleason Park, Indian Harbour Beach

Sources: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Apalone_ferox/

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

July 22, 2020

Location: Fellsmere, St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

I am a Florida Softshell Turtle
I'm a carnivore and can be quite mean
I have sharp claws and powerful jaws
That help me to consume meat
Don't ever mistake me for a tortoise
If you see me crossing a street.

Note: I almost stopped to help one of these cross a street once as I do with Gopher Tortoises. Luckily, I was warned to never pick these guys up as they are large, heavy and will defend themself if you attempt to touch them or pick them up, no matter how good your intentions.

Sources: USGS NAS - Apalone ferox


Photo and text © 2020 Dee Fairbanks Simpson