Real Red-eared Slider Skull and Shell

The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a highly adaptable, semi-aquatic turtle native to the south-central United States but now found worldwide due to widespread introduction through the pet trade. It is easily identified by the distinctive red stripe located behind each eye.

This species inhabits a wide variety of freshwater environments, including ponds, lakes, rivers, and slow-moving streams with ample basking sites. It is frequently seen basking on logs or banks to regulate body temperature.

An opportunistic omnivore, the red-eared slider feeds on aquatic vegetation, algae, insects, fish, and carrion. Juveniles tend to be more carnivorous, gradually shifting toward a more plant-based diet as they mature.

• Shell Length 21.8 cm (8.6 in)
• Shell Width 17.1 cm (6.7 in)
• Shell Height 9.7 cm (3.8 in)
• Skull Length 5.1 cm (2 in)
• Skull Width 3.2 cm (1.3 in)
• Skull Height 2.1 cm (0.8 in)