These freshwater carnivores swim, bask, and even snorkel through their long snouts, but their most unique feature is their soft, leathery shell. Spiny softshells also give new meaning to camouflage. When they bury themselves in the mud under shallow water, they are nearly impossible to see. The chameleon of turtles, spiny softshells can change their shell color to blend with their surroundings. Kids will be fascinated by the life cycle of these pancake-shaped turtles.