What is a Red-Eared Slider?

Scientifically named Trachemys scripta elgans, the red-eared slider is one type of the common pond slider. The bright red or orange stripe behind its eyes is where this turtle gets its name. This semi-aquatic turtle found around the world will spend much of its life in the water. During sunny weather, however, these turtles can be found basking in the sun on land. They are considered to be very fast, and they are known to quickly slide off of their perches when frightened.

When it is born, the red-eared slider is roughly 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. The green skin of its head and appendages is usually covered with bright yellow stripes, except for a small area behind its eyes, which is a reddish color. The shells of baby red-eared sliders are typically green with yellow or dark green marks. As these turtles get older, their shells generally change to a yellow or brownish green color, and the markings will often darken and may even disappear altogether.

Depending on the gender of the turtle, an adult red-eared slider can grow to be 10 to 13 inches (25 to 33 cm) long. Females are typically a little larger and bulkier than males. The stripes behind their eyes are also a much brighter red, while the stripes on male sliders are more of an orange color. Females usually have smaller claws and tails too.

Gender of a red-eared slider can generally be recognized roughly seven months after it is born. When it comes time to lay eggs, a female red-eared slider will leave the water to lay her eggs in the sand. Larger females can lay up to 30 eggs at a time.

These turtles are considered to be omnivorous, eating a variety of plants and animals. Younger turtles typically eat more animals as foods, including worms, small fish, and tadpoles. As they mature, more plant material is added to their diets.

The red-eared slider is native to the southern United States, but has become a very common, inexpensive pet and can be found in most parts of the world living domestically and in the wild. Since 1975, the United States Food and Drug Administration has regulated the sale of turtles. To reduce the risk of spreading salmonella, which the turtles can carry, the animals must be at least 4 inches long before they can be sold.

Red-eared sliders can be considered a threat to the environment in places where they are not native species. In Australia they are completely banned. Owning or breeding these types of turtles can result in hefty fines and jail time.

Because they can get quite large and prefer lots of room to roam, these turtles do best in a large aquarium or terrarium. The water should be kept clean and warm, and owners are strongly encouraged to replace at least a quarter of the water once a week. A UVB light should also be provided, along with some sort of platform for the turtle to bask on. Under the right conditions, red-eared sliders, like many other turtles, can live to be almost 100 years old.

A Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a semi-aquatic turtle known for the distinctive red stripe on each side of its head. Native to the southeastern United States, it's a popular pet due to its hardy nature. They can grow up to 12 inches in shell length and live for over 20 years with proper care.

Red-Eared Sliders are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. Their diet in the wild consists of aquatic vegetation, small fish, and insects. In captivity, they should be fed a balanced diet of turtle pellets, leafy greens, and occasional treats like crickets or worms to mimic their natural diet.

Caring for a Red-Eared Slider involves providing a suitable aquatic habitat with clean water, a basking area with a heat lamp, and a UVB light to help them synthesize vitamin D3. Regular tank maintenance is crucial, and a balanced diet is essential for their health. They also need space to swim and dive, as they are active creatures.

Red-Eared Sliders can coexist with other aquatic pets, such as certain fish species, but caution is advised. They may view smaller fish as food and can be aggressive towards other turtles. It's important to consider the size and temperament of all pets and provide ample space to prevent stress and potential harm.

While Red-Eared Sliders are hardy and can be great pets, they require specific care that may not be ideal for beginners. They need a large tank, proper filtration, and a varied diet. Their long lifespan and the commitment required to maintain their habitat make them a more suitable choice for experienced pet owners.

Releasing Red-Eared Sliders into the wild can have significant ecological impacts. They are considered an invasive species outside their native range, competing with local wildlife for resources and potentially spreading diseases. According to the IUCN, invasive species like the Red-Eared Slider can disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity.