Trachemys scripta (Pond Slider)

The Pond Slider is one of the most recognizable turtles in the world, known for the red streaks on both sides of its head. It’s often seen basking in the sun on logs or rocks near freshwater areas and is a common pet turtle in many countries.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Emydidae
Genus: Trachemys
Species: Trachemys scripta

Common Names

• Pond Slider

Identification

Description
This medium-sized turtle has an olive-green carapace with yellow markings and a lighter, yellowish plastron with dark spots. The most striking feature is the red stripe behind each eye. Its skin is dark green with yellow lines running along the neck, limbs, and tail.

Sexual Dimorphism
Males are usually smaller than females but have longer front claws and longer tails. Females grow larger, often reaching up to 12 inches in shell length, while males usually max out around 8–10 inches.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range
Native to the southeastern United States, especially around the Mississippi River Basin. It’s now found in many countries worldwide due to pet releases and has become invasive in parts of Europe, Asia, and South America.

Preferred Habitat

Pond Sliders prefer calm, warm freshwater habitats like ponds, lakes, swamps, and slow-moving rivers. They need areas with easy access to both water and basking spots such as logs, rocks, or banks.

Behavior

Feeding Habits
They are omnivores. Young ones eat more animal matter like insects, fish, and snails, while adults eat more plants and algae. They also feed on aquatic vegetation, worms, and commercial turtle pellets in captivity.

Predators
Eggs and hatchlings are preyed on by raccoons, birds, fish, and snakes. Adults have fewer natural predators, but large birds and mammals may still pose a threat in the wild.

Reproduction

Breeding Season
Breeding occurs in spring and early summer, though courtship may begin in late winter in warmer regions.

Reproductive Method
They lay eggs on land in shallow nests. A female may lay 2–30 eggs per clutch and can produce multiple clutches per season. Eggs hatch after about 60–90 days depending on temperature.

Conservation

Extinction Status
Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Threats
Their global spread has made them invasive in many areas, where they compete with native turtle species. Habitat destruction and water pollution also affect their native populations.

Conservation Measures
Bans and restrictions on selling and releasing them exist in some regions. Educational efforts focus on responsible pet ownership and preventing their release into the wild.

Economic Importance

They are widely sold in the pet trade and also used in scientific research. In some countries, they are part of the food market. Their popularity has made them a key species in the reptile trade.

Interesting Facts

• Pond Sliders can hold their breath underwater for 30 minutes or more.
• They often stack on top of each other when basking.
• They can live 20 to 30 years or more with proper care.
• They communicate using body language during courtship displays, especially with their long front claws.