Spiny Softshell Turtles Information

The spiny softshell turtle is distinguished by its rubbery shell. It is a small aquatic turtle that is frequently kept as a display animal, as it is not a docile reptile. Learning more about the spiny softshell turtle can help you determine if this is a good reptile for you.

  1. Features

    • The spiny softshell turtle has a tough leathery shell rather than a hard bony plate on its back. The shell has no scales, but there are small, conical spikes along its front edge. The turtle's shell, also known as the carapace, is olive in color with dark blotches and a lighter border around the edge. The spiny softshell turtle's underside, or plastron, is pure white or yellow. There are also two light stripes on either side of the turtle's head. The turtle has webbed feet, which equip it for fast swimming, and a long neck.

    Geography

    • The spiny softshell turtle is found in western New York, western Pennsylvania and southern Ontario. From this eastern border, its range extends west to Wyoming, Nebraska and South Dakota. It can also be found in the coastal Gulf states as well as New Mexico. Spiny softshell turtles tend to live in rivers, streams and freshwater bayous, preferring locations with a sandy bottom and at least some water current and vegetation. They are particularly attracted to fallen trees with limbs underwater.

    Diet

    • The majority of the spiny softshell turtle's diet is composed of insects, fish, frogs and crawfish. While it is a largely carnivorous reptile, it will also eat aquatic plants. In captivity, it can be fed a diet of small live fish, red worms, earthworms, blackworms and turtle food supplements.

    Care

    • According to The Turtle Source, spiny softshell turtles are sensitive turtles that require careful husbandry. Their water needs to be kept as clean as possible, and they require a soft, sandy substrate to burrow in. They spend most of their time burrowed in the sand, and they require water that is between 72 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit that is slightly acidic. They are also prone to scratches and scrapes that can become infected, so gravel, coarse sand and pebbles should be avoided as they can abrade the turtle's shell and plastron.

    Warning

    • Spiny softshell turtles are aggressive and should be kept singly or in small groups. They have long necks that allow them to reach back and bite the person who is holding them. They should only be handled minimally and with great care.