Red-Eared Slider Turtle
The Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is the most commonly kept pet turtle in the world - and the most commonly surrendered.
Overview
The Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is the most commonly kept pet turtle in the world - and the most commonly surrendered. Sold as cute hatchlings for $20, the species grows to 25-30 cm, lives 30+ years, requires a massive heated filtered aquarium, and is invasive in many countries when released.
Natural History
Native to the south-central United States. Semi-aquatic - lives in ponds and slow rivers, basking heavily.
Now considered one of the world's worst invasive species. Banned for import to the EU (since 1997) and many Asian countries.
Appearance
Adults 20-30 cm shell length (females larger than males), 1-2 kg.
Green to olive shell with red stripe behind each eye (the "red ear").
Temperament & Handling
Active swimmers; not handling pets. Will bite if mishandled. Better observed than touched.
Enclosure
Adult minimum: 380 L (100 gallon) aquarium or larger. Many keepers use stock tanks or outdoor ponds for adults.
Provide:
- Strong external filter - turtles produce enormous waste.
- Basking platform (UVB-lit, dry).
- Deep water for swimming.
- Tight-fitting lid (or high-sided enclosure).
Heating & Lighting
- Water: 24-28°C.
- Basking spot: 32-35°C.
- UVB essential - high-output, replaced every 6-12 months.
Humidity
Aquatic - humidity not separately managed.
Diet
Omnivore, shifting with age. Juveniles more carnivorous; adults more herbivorous.
- Pellets as base - quality aquatic turtle food.
- Leafy greens: dandelion, collard, mustard, kale.
- Vegetables: squash, sweet potato.
- Limited protein: fish, shrimp, insects.
- Calcium supplement.
Health & Lifespan
20-40 years.
Common concerns:
- Metabolic bone disease.
- Respiratory infections.
- Shell rot.
- Vitamin A deficiency (causes swollen eyes).
- Salmonella - turtles carry Salmonella; always wash hands.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Active and interesting to watch.
- 30+ year companion.
- Hardy when properly housed.
Cons:
- Massive enclosure as adults.
- Constant water maintenance.
- Salmonella carrier.
- Cannot release - invasive species.
- Not for handling.
- Lifetime commitment 30+ years.
Best Suited For
- Owners willing to commit to large aquariums and decades of care.
- Outdoor pond keepers in suitable climates.
Not suited for apartment dwellers without space, anyone planning short-term ownership, households with very young children (Salmonella).
Red-Eared Slider Turtle - frequently asked questions
Why are they considered invasive?
Released or escaped pets establish in wild ponds, outcompeting native species. Banned from import in EU and many other regions.
How big do they get?
Adult females reach 25-30 cm shell length. Males slightly smaller.
How long do they live?
20-40 years; some over 50.
Are they good for kids?
Older children with adult supervision. The Salmonella risk and long lifespan make young-child ownership inadvisable.
Can I let them go in a pond?
Never. Releasing pet turtles is illegal in most places and ecologically damaging.
🧠 Test yourself: guess the reptile
Three clues from our quiz bank, each about another of our reptiles. Can you name them?
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It's the Green Iguana - read the full profile →
Clue 2.This docile orange-and-red North American constrictor is the most popular pet snake, named perhaps for the maize-like belly pattern.
It's the Corn Snake - read the full profile →
Clue 3.This desert lizard from Australia puffs out and darkens a spiny throat pouch when threatened or displaying, creating the namesake feature.
It's the Bearded Dragon - read the full profile →