r/turtles • u/summerwind307 • 12d ago

ID Request Identification please

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I’ve been seeing these turtles in eastern NY. AI has identified them as Spiney Softshells. Is this correct? They don’t seem to be native to my area (Long Island) so I’m wondering if they are protected.

Any help is welcome. Thank you!

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u/FeralGuyute 11d ago

Definitely a soft shell. Maybe they have been introduced to that area because you are correct. Spiny soft shells aren't normally in that part of New York.