Safety note: Powerful bite — keep away
The Florida Softshell Turtle is the largest softshell turtle in North America, with females reaching 2 feet. It is highly aquatic and buries itself in sand or mud. It is frequently eaten in the Southeast.
Habitat
Ponds, lakes, canals, and slow rivers in Florida and surrounding states
Diet
Fish, invertebrates, frogs, and aquatic vegetation
How common
Common
Best time to see a Florida Softshell Turtle
The best time to see a Florida Softshell Turtle is January–June, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 15,768 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Florida Softshell Turtle sightings near you
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5,300+species
63national parks
50states
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