Red-eared Slider
Trachemys scripta elegans · Reptile. Vertebrate. Cold-blooded. Domestic Pet/Wild (depending on context).
Animal Family
Family Emydidae, Order Testudines, Class Reptilia
Animal Category
Domestic Pet, Freshwater Animal, Reptile, Invasive Species in many regions
Breed / Variety
Subspecies of the Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta)
Conservation Status
IUCN Least Concern. Population is stable, but considered a harmful invasive species outside its native range due to competition with native turtles.
About This Creature
Medium-sized turtle with a dark green or brown oval carapace (top shell). Adults range from 5 to 11 inches. Distinguished by prominent red stripes behind each eye.
Physical Characteristics
Hard carapace with yellow patterns on scutes, yellow plastron (bottom shell) with black spots. Webbed feet for swimming, sharp claws. Retractile neck.
Behavior & Temperament
Diurnal, social in basking groups, skittish ('Slider' name comes from sliding off rocks when startled). Use visual cues and touch for communication.
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
Native to the Southern United States and Mexico; introduced globally as pets.
Habitat
Freshwater (ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers). Semi-aquatic/Terrestrial (basking).
Diet & Nutrition
Omnivore; juveniles are mostly carnivorous (insects, small fish), while adults transition toward herbivory (aquatic plants).
Lifespan & Health
Living 20-30 years in the wild; up to 40-50 years in captivity. Susceptible to shell rot and respiratory infections.
Special Characteristics
Ectothermic (requires external heat for digestion). Highly adaptable. Cultural icon in the pet trade but dangerous to local ecosystems if released.
Ecological Information
Middle of the food chain. Serves as predator for aquatic insects/fish and prey for large birds/alligators. Influences aquatic plant growth.
Notes
Scared