A Survey of the Herpetofauna of the Comanche National Grasslands in Southeastern Colorado

Appendix 7:

Photographs of selected habitat and species of amphibians and
reptiles observered during the 1995-1997 field seasons

The spiny softshell turtle (Triohyx [Apalone] spiniferus hartwegi) is broadly distributed across eastern Colorado and is most common along major drainages. Juvenile softshells, such as this 2-3 year old, have a more pronounced pattern on the carapace.

This adult softshell turtle is from Carrizo Creek in Cottonwood Canyon (Comanche Grassland, southern section). Softshell turtles were frequently encountered along this permanent drainage even though the creek is quite narrow and shallow in many places. The soft carapace, reduced plastron, elongate snout and flattened aspect are characteristic of the species.

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A Survey of the Herpetofauna of the Comanche National Grasslands in Southeastern Colorado

Appendix 7:

Photographs of selected habitat and species of amphibians and reptiles observered during the 1995-1997 field seasons

Photographs of selected habitat and species of amphibians and
reptiles observered during the 1995-1997 field seasons