Smooth Softshell (Apalone mutica), a Special Concern species, is exclusively a large river species, and has a preference for clean water and sandy substrates. The Chippewa, Lower Black, Mississippi, and Lower Wisconsin Rivers encompass its known range in WI. They are active from April through September and overwinter by burrowing in sandy substrate in flowing water where they can avoid freezing. They breed in the spring or fall and nest from early-June to early-July, often close to the riverbank, however, some females will nest up to 100m from open water on large exposed sandy areas. Smooth softshells nest in sand four or more feet above normal river levels to achieve suitable nest temperatures and avoid inundation during periods of high water. They lay a single clutch annually. Eggs hatch in 60-90 days depending on summer temperatures.
