Species Detail
Red-Eared Slider
Turtles & Tortoises

Red-Eared Slider

Trachemys scripta elegans

Habitat

Ponds, lakes, and slow rivers

Range

Mississippi Valley, United States

Adult Size

6-12 in (15-30 cm)

Diet

Omnivorous: pellets, insects, fish, greens

Find on MorphMarket
Conservation status:Least Concern

About this species

The most popular pet turtle worldwide. Named for the red stripe behind each eye. Strong swimmers and baskers.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Red-Eared Slider is aquatic — enrichment centers on water quality, basking, and foraging variety.

  • Provide varied water depth with deep areas for swimming and shallow shelves for resting.
  • Add a sturdy dry basking platform under heat and UV.
  • Introduce gentle water movement or aeration for sensory variety.
  • Scatter food in the water to encourage swimming and searching.
  • Include underwater cover and hiding spots to reduce stress.
  • Provide a dry haul-out area for basking and resting.

Housing & Social Behavior

Groups

Commonly kept in groups in large setups; monitor for aggression during feeding.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.