Softshell turtles can be aggressive toward humans, and basically anything else, so knowing how to handle it is imperative to preventing a nasty bite. Never approach the turtle from the front, because they have long necks that can stretch out very fast. Start from the back of the turtle and gently lift up the backside. Keep your hands away from the front half of the shell. The turtle may try to run or jump a little bit. While you are lifting up the back end of the turtle, slide your other hand under the plastron (bottom half of the shell). Keep your palm against the plastron and spread your fingers out, then carefully lift up. Keep the turtle’s front half tilted upward at about a 45-degree angle, then take your free hand and gently cradle the back end. Again keep your hands away from the front half of the shell, and don’t lift them by the legs. This can cause injury to the turtle and yourself as it flails about. In this position, the back legs should straddle your forearm, and all your digits will be away from the jaws. One important note; if you encounter any wild turtle or tortoise on the road, and you want to help them cross safely, always move them in the direction they are facing. If you move them in the opposite direction, they will just turn around and attempt the road crossing again.