About Red Ear Sliders

A red ear slider or red eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is one of the most common species of pet turtle kept in North America and Europe, where they are often referred to as "red-eared terrapins." They are naturally found in the wild freshwater wetlands of the southern United States and Mexico. According to Redearslider.com, any red eared slider found in the wild should be left alone, because wild turtles may not adapt to captivity.

  1. Identification

    • Red ear sliders are green, yellow and black turtles, but the color green tends to predominate; there is also an albino version (see Resources). They get their name from two red marks where outer ears would be--if turtles had outer ears. They have long, slim claws and a visible tail. Adults grow to as long as 9 inches in males and 12 inches in females.

    Feeding

    • Although red ear sliders were once thought to be strictly carnivorous, it's not known if they need both meat and vegetables in their diets. Hatchlings and growing red ear sliders eat mostly insects and small fish. But when they mature, these turtles enjoy fresh fruit, vegetables and aquatic plants. Commercially made pellets for turtles kept as pets are recommended by Redearslider.com. It also recommends adding a calcium supplement for growing turtles.

    Fun Fact

    • Red eared sliders are unable to make saliva. In order to eat, they have to take their food in the water and swallow it there. This is one reason why red ear sliders need constant access to fresh, clean water.
      Also, it is not known how long a red ear slider lives. Some sources state that they can live more than 100 years in the wild, but Animal Planet claims they live 50 to70 years with luck (see Resources).

    Care

    • If you are keeping the turtle as a pet, keep in mind the following information. One adult red eared slider should be kept in a large aquarium that is at least 90 gallons in volume. The turtle should have a swimming area that is at least as twice as long as its own length. Two-thirds of the tank should be filled with water kept at 75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and one-third should be made up of rock where the turtle can bask. Keep the turtle warm by using incandescent lights.

    Breeding

    • Males reach sexual maturity between 2 to 5 years of age; females reach sexual maturity between 5 to 7 years old. Mating season is late spring and early summer. After mating, females lay between 4 to 20 eggs in a clutch, which hatch in 60 to 75 days. The parent turtles do not participate in raising their young.

    Warning

    • Since 1975, it is illegal to sell any turtle, including red eared sliders, that are less than 4 inches long in the United States because baby turtles can harbor salmonella. This also means that baby turtles are not allowed to enter the United States unless the turtles are going to zoos. Also, local laws may prevent owning any turtle found in the wild, although buying turtles from pet stores or breeders is legal.