Red-Eared Slider
Trachemys scripta elegans
🌍 Overview
The red-eared slider is one of the world's most widely recognized freshwater turtles, named for the distinctive red stripe behind each eye. Native to the Mississippi River valley, they have become one of the most invasive reptile species globally - released or escaped pets have established populations on every continent except Antarctica. In the wild they bask in large groups on logs and rocks, maintaining a clear social hierarchy.
📋 Quick Facts
Native Range
Mississippi River valley and Gulf Coast (United States)
Natural Habitat
Slow-moving freshwater - ponds, lakes, marshes, and rivers
Adult Size
5-12 inches (13-30 cm); females significantly larger
Wild Diet
Omnivore - aquatic plants, fish, insects, and carrion
Wild Lifespan
20-40 years
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); invasive outside native range
⚖️ Compare
Red-Eared Slider
Human
Adult Size
5-12 inches (13-30 cm); females significantly larger
5-6 feet (150-185 cm); ~135-200 lbs
Wild Lifespan
20-40 years
~73 years (global average)
Wild Diet
Omnivore - aquatic plants, fish, insects, and carrion
Omnivorous - eats just about anything
Native Range
Mississippi River valley and Gulf Coast (United States)
Global - originated in Africa roughly 300,000 years ago
Natural Habitat
Slow-moving freshwater - ponds, lakes, marshes, and rivers
Everywhere from arctic tundra to tropical megacities
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); invasive outside native range
Least Concern (8+ billion and counting)
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🤓 Did You Know?
Red-eared sliders are one of the world's most invasive species. Released or escaped pets have established populations on every continent except Antarctica!
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