Red-Eared Slider Care
Red Eared Sliders
(Trachemys scripta elegans)
Red-eared sliders are one of the most recognizable and commonly kept aquatic turtles in the pet trade. Native to the southern United States and northern Mexico, they inhabit slow-moving freshwater bodies like ponds, lakes, and rivers. They get their name from the bright red stripe just behind each eye, which becomes less vivid with age but remains a key identifying feature. These turtles can reach 8–12 inches in shell length (females typically larger than males) and are known for their active nature, strong swimming ability, and frequent basking behavior. While they require a bit more setup than terrestrial reptiles, their personality and interactivity make them rewarding long-term companions.
Lifespan:
20-40 years in captivity with proper care
Sexing:
Males: are smaller with longer front claws and longer tails. Mature males often have a concave plastron to aid in mounting during breeding.
Females: are larger with shorter claws and shorter tails.
Enclosure:
Minimum Size: A single adult should be housed in a 75–120 gallon aquarium or larger. Provide a strong canister filter to keep the water clean, as sliders are messy eaters.
Basking platform large enough for the turtle to completely dry off
Smooth, safe surfaces to prevent shell or skin injury
Substrate:
Basking platform only; use a slate rock or other hard surface
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking Spot: 88–95°F
Ambient Water Temp: 74–78°F (Adults), 78–82°F (Juveniles)
Provide a UVB bulb (10.0 T5 HO or similar)
Humidity:
Humidity is not a primary concern, but ambient air around the basking area should not be too dry. Avoid keeping sliders in open, dry environments for extended periods when they are out of water.
Food:
Red-eared sliders are omnivores. Offer a varied diet including:
Aquatic turtle pellets (staple)
Dark leafy greens: collards, dandelion, turnip greens
Occasional protein: earthworms, crickets, feeder fish, bloodworms
Feed juveniles daily; adults can be fed every 2–3 days. Remove uneaten food promptly.
Water:
Perform partial water changes weekly (25-50% to provide clean water. Maintain a pH around 6.5-8.0and ensure chlorine/chloramine is removed from tap water
Red-eared sliders are interactive and curious turtles that often recognize their keepers and beg for food. Their bright coloring, aquatic antics, and expressive personalities make them favorites among turtle enthusiasts. With the right setup and care, these turtles provide decades of companionship and a lively presence in any home or educational setting.