Sep 9, 2013: Northern Spiny Softshell Turtle

This Northern Spiny Softshell Turtle was found at the southwest corner of the north lake's west bay, on the trail.  [Prior to 2011 it was known as the Western Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera hartwegi).  It is now synonymized to A. s. spinifera.]  Although not visible on this specimen, this turtle gets its name from the spiny, cone-like projections on the leading edge of the carapace.  Another characteristic for this species is the ridge in each nostril, which was present on this turtle.  After obtaining some photographs I picked up the turtle and released it into the north lake. 9/5/13 (Wolf. Oesterreich)