Red Eared Sliders

Native to the Mississippi Valley drainage in the southern United States, from Illinois to the Gulf of Mexico. However, due to pet releases, they are now found as an invasive species in waterways globally.

Red = Native Range
Source: USGS (Public Domain)

Omnivorous opportunists.

• Wild: Aquatic vegetation, small fish, tadpoles, insects, and carrion.
• Zoo: Turtle pellets, leafy greens, and fish.

• Wild: 20 – 30 years
• Captivity: 30 – 40 years

• Identification: Easily identified by the broad red stripe behind each eye.
• Invasive Status: They are included in the list of the world’s 100 most invasive species due to pet releases.
• The “Slide”: They get their name from their habit of sliding quickly off logs into the water when startled.