Red-Eared Slider Turtle

The southern United States are home to a unique species of freshwater turtle called the Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans). It is one of the most widely distributed turtle species in the wild, making it a popular pet. The crimson stripes that extend from behind each eye of a crimson-Eared Slider give the animal its common name.
- The modest size and bright greenish yellow coloration of Red-Eared Sliders' shells make them a top pick among turtle keepers. They are also well-known for their basking habits, which involve perching on rocks or logs to get some much-needed vitamin D.
- Aquatic vegetation, insects, small fish, and other aquatic invertebrates are all part of these turtles' diversified diet. Their capacity to thrive in a variety of water conditions is a major factor in their spread beyond their natural habitat.
Due to their high demand in the pet trade, potential owners of Red-Eared Sliders should be well-versed in their specialized needs, such as those related to tank size, water quality, temperature, and diet. Taking turtles from the wild can be detrimental to turtle populations and the habitats in which they live, so it's important to make sure the turtles you own were born in captivity or were lawfully obtained.