The red-eared slider or red-eared terrapin (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a subspecies of the pond slider (Trachemys scripta), a semiaquatic turtle belonging to the family Emydidae. For example, Red Eared Sliders have a distinctive red stripe behind their eyes, while Snapping Turtles have ridges on their shells and a large beak. Red-eared sliders are semi-aquatic, spending time in the water and basking on land.
They are known for their distinctive red stripes behind their eyes and their ability to quickly slide off rocks and logs. While they are not snapping turtles, there are some key similarities and differences between these species that are worth exploring. All about the Red-Eared Slider Turtle - characteristics, life expectancy, distribution, behavior, diet, predators, interesting facts, and much more.
The Red Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a popular pet turtle, known for its striking red stripe on its ears and its ability to thrive in captivity. However, many people often get confused about the classification of Red Eared Sliders, wondering if they are actually snapping turtles. Whether you choose a red eared slider for their social nature or a snapping turtle for their intriguing behaviors, both species can make rewarding and fulfilling pets for those willing to provide the care and attention they deserve.
When it comes to the red stripe found on each side of the turtle's head, this mark distinguishes this terrapin from other North American turtle species. The red stripes are where the external ears are located. As the red-eared slider matures, this red color can fade and even disappear.
The red-eared slider is perhaps the best known and most recognizable of turtles. It is a medium sized turtle with a dark green oval shell, marked with yellow in younger turtles, green legs with thin yellow stripes and a green head with a red stripe behind the eye. Typically, have a red iris, the posterior lobe of the Typically, have a yellowish-brown iris, a more plastron is concave, have fairly long, stocky, and domed carapace compared to males, a flat or considerably curved hind foot claws, and longer slightly convex plastron, and shorter, more thicker tails compared to females.
slender, and straighter.