MIDLAND SMOOTH SOFTSHELL TURTLE
Apalone mutica mutica
These are medium to large aquatic turtles, that may be brown, or olive-green. Males and juveniles often have faint markings in the form of dots or dashes. Females have a mottled carapace (upper shell) with blotches of gray, olive-green or brown. An unmarked plastron is cream or gray. The upper portion of the neck and legs are olive-green or gray and the underside is light colored. A light colored stripe, with dark edges runs from the eyes along the side of the head. Males are smaller than females and have longer thicker tails.
Length: 6-14 inches.
They are found in medium to large, fast to moderate moving rivers, as well as sloughs, marshes, ponds and lakes. They prefer sand or mud bottoms that allow them to bury themselves at times of rest. They will extend their snorkel-like nose to the surface to breath air.
This species is more aquatic than the spiny softshell turtle. Midlands, rarely bask in the sun. If they do it will be on mud flats or sand bars.
They are found Statewide, but uncommon in the Ozark region. Their numbers are in decline throughout their range. This is due to the channeling of rivers, siltation, pollution and habitat loss.
They are a game species with an approved hunting season.
Length: 6-14 inches.
They are found in medium to large, fast to moderate moving rivers, as well as sloughs, marshes, ponds and lakes. They prefer sand or mud bottoms that allow them to bury themselves at times of rest. They will extend their snorkel-like nose to the surface to breath air.
This species is more aquatic than the spiny softshell turtle. Midlands, rarely bask in the sun. If they do it will be on mud flats or sand bars.
They are found Statewide, but uncommon in the Ozark region. Their numbers are in decline throughout their range. This is due to the channeling of rivers, siltation, pollution and habitat loss.
They are a game species with an approved hunting season.
