Turtle experts-need Turtle ID help, please

[Simba's Mom]

Saw the strangest looking turtle today, on the bank of a creek here in Texas. For one thing, the shell was almost flat, oval, and a mottled beige/brown color, so that at first it almost blended in with the sand. It was rather large, I thought, with a shell about 20"X14". The body was also a sandy brown color, with almost gold coloration around the mouth. It had no stripes or designs. Looked strange to me. I searched the internet, but no luck. Anyone have any hints?

 

[mommytotwo]

I have never heard of it. Do you have an aquarium or animal protection area around where you live that you could call for information?
Is the turtle in a place that it will be harmed or just swimming/sun bathing?

 

[SonicLogic]

Sounds as if it might be a Midland Smooth Softshell turtle (Apalone mutica mutica):

http://herpcenter.ipfw.edu/index.ht.../reptiles/turtles/Midland_Smooth_Softshell/&2