Does The Red Eared Slider Turtle Get?

As one of the most popular pet turtles, the Red Eared Slider Turtle enjoys an enthusiastic following of fans. But what do these turtles actually get up to? This article will explore the behavior and diet of the Red Eared Slider Turtle, giving you a glimpse into the life of this beloved pet. We’ll look at what they eat, how they interact with their environment, and how they can be kept healthy and happy. So if you’re curious about what goes on in the world of the Red Eared Slider Turtle, read on!

What does the Red Eared Slider Turtle Get?

The Red Eared Slider Turtle, or Trachemys scripta elegans, is a species of semi-aquatic turtle that is common in the United States. This turtle is popular in the pet trade and is known for its very colorful head and neck markings. But, what exactly does the Red Eared Slider Turtle get?

Habitat and Diet

Red Eared Slider Turtles are native to the southeastern United States, but they can also be found throughout much of the world. They prefer shallow, slow-moving bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, and streams. This species is omnivorous, meaning it eats both plant and animal matter. Its diet includes insects, worms, small fish, and plant material.

Size and Lifespan

Red Eared Sliders grow to a length of about 8-12 inches and can live for up to 25 years in the wild. In captivity, however, they can live for much longer. They are considered to be one of the longest living turtle species in the world.

Mating and Reproduction

Red Eared Slider Turtles reach sexual maturity at around 5-7 years of age. During the breeding season, which usually takes place in the spring, they will engage in courtship behavior. Females will then lay their eggs in a dry, sunny area. Female Red Eared Sliders can lay up to 3 clutches of eggs per season. The eggs will hatch in about 70-90 days.

Behavior and Temperament

Red Eared Slider Turtles are generally peaceful and can be kept with other turtles of the same size. They are also relatively active, and they enjoy basking in the sun. These turtles can become very attached to their owners and can be trained to recognize their names.

Health and Common Illnesses

Red Eared Slider Turtles are relatively hardy animals, but they are prone to certain illnesses. Common illnesses in this species include respiratory infections, shell rot, and vitamin A deficiency. Proper nutrition and regular veterinary checkups are essential for keeping these turtles healthy.

Cage Requirements

Red Eared Slider Turtles require a large tank or pond with a solid basking area. The basking area should be kept at a temperature of around 90°F (32°C). The water temperature should remain between 75-80°F (24-27°C). The tank should also have a filter and a UVB light to provide essential vitamins.

Hibernation

In the wild, Red Eared Slider Turtles will hibernate in the winter. In captivity, however, hibernation is not recommended. If hibernation is attempted, the tank should be kept at a temperature between 40-50°F (4-10°C). Hibernation should only be attempted with the guidance of a veterinarian.

Handling and Interaction

Red Eared Slider Turtles can be handled with caution. They should never be picked up by their tails, as this can cause injury. They should also not be picked up too often, as this can cause stress. When handling these turtles, it is important to be gentle and slow.

Conservation Status

The Red Eared Slider Turtle is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. This species is threatened by habitat loss and the pet trade. It is important to only purchase captive-bred turtles from reputable sources to help protect wild populations.

Conclusion

The Red Eared Slider Turtle is a popular pet that is native to the southeastern United States. It is an omnivorous species that can live for up to 25 years in the wild. This species requires a large tank or pond with a basking area and a filter. It is also important to purchase captive-bred turtles from reputable sources to help protect wild populations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Red Eared Slider Turtle?

A Red Eared Slider Turtle is an aquatic turtle species that is native to the United States and parts of Mexico. They are popular pets due to their hardy nature and easy availability. Red Eared Sliders are unique in their ability to adapt to living in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.

The Red Eared Slider gets its name from the red marking behind each eye, which resembles a red ear, and the fact that they are able to slide off their basking rocks and into the water swiftly.

What Does the Red Eared Slider Turtle Eat?

The Red Eared Slider Turtle is omnivorous and typically eats a variety of foods, including insects, worms, fish, and plants. They also enjoy snacking on small snails, crayfish, and tadpoles. In the wild, they will scavenge for food, including carrion.

In captivity, a balanced diet should include a variety of foods, such as commercially-prepared turtle pellets, frozen or freeze-dried shrimp, crickets, mealworms, and leafy greens like romaine lettuce, kale, and dandelion greens. Fruits like strawberries and watermelon can also be offered occasionally as treats.

What is the Life Span of the Red Eared Slider Turtle?

The life span of the Red Eared Slider Turtle can vary greatly depending on the environment and care it receives. In the wild, they can live up to 30 years. In captivity, they can live up to 40 years with proper care.

Proper care includes providing the turtle with a clean environment, a healthy diet, and adequate space. They should also be provided with heat lamps, basking rocks, and UVB lighting to keep their environment warm and provide them with the necessary UVB light to absorb calcium for healthy bones and shell.

What is the Size of the Red Eared Slider Turtle?

The Red Eared Slider Turtle can grow to be quite large. When fully grown, they can range in size from 4 to 12 inches in length. Females tend to be larger than males, typically reaching sizes of 8 to 12 inches.

In the wild, they can reach much larger sizes, up to 16 inches in length. In captivity, they tend to grow smaller due to the lack of space and food available.

What are the Temperament and Behavior of the Red Eared Slider Turtle?

The Red Eared Slider Turtle is generally a calm and docile species, although they can become aggressive if provoked. In the wild, they are mostly solitary creatures, although they will congregate in large groups during the mating season.

In captivity, they can be very active and playful. They are also quite inquisitive and will explore their environment, although they may also become shy and hide if they feel threatened. They can be handled, although it is important to take care not to stress them out too much.

5 Things You NEED to Know Before Buying a RED-EARED SLIDER Turtle

In conclusion, the Red Eared Slider Turtle is a very interesting animal, and its diet can vary depending on where it lives and what it is exposed to. Its diet can consist of a variety of things, from live food like worms and insects, to plant matter and even small fish. Understanding the diet of a Red Eared Slider Turtle can help keep them healthy and happy.