This looks like a Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans), a common pond turtle. If it’s from the wild, make sure to check local laws about keeping it. Wild-caught turtles often struggle in captivity and might carry diseases or parasites. If this one is captive-bred or invasive, you’ll need to ensure you provide proper care, including a large tank, UVB lighting, and clean water. They can live 30-75 years, so this could be a long-term companion!
@Aubrey
Thank you so much for this detailed info. I’ll look into setting up the right environment for it.
Valen said:
@Aubrey
Thank you so much for this detailed info. I’ll look into setting up the right environment for it.
If you can, post more pictures. It’ll help confirm the species!
@Aubrey
Some states prohibit keeping Red-eared Sliders because they’re considered invasive. You should check your local laws, especially if it was wild-caught. I know some areas implemented restrictions years ago.
@Jaden
That’s a good point. Different regions treat invasive species differently, so it’s always best to check. Better safe than sorry.
@Jaden
These turtles live a long time, so enforcement of laws might only become relevant decades later.
Oaklan said:
@Jaden
These turtles live a long time, so enforcement of laws might only become relevant decades later.
They can live up to 50 years with good care, so yeah, this could definitely be a long-term responsibility!
@Aubrey
This is really useful info! Thanks for sharing.
So cute, but if you found it in the wild, the best thing to do is to put it back where you found it.
Jody said:
So cute, but if you found it in the wild, the best thing to do is to put it back where you found it.
In many places, it’s actually illegal to keep wild animals as pets.
If this little one came from the wild, it’s best to leave it there. Wild turtles belong in their natural habitat.
This brings back memories! I had a couple of these as a kid. They’re adorable at this size!
It’s definitely a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Time to introduce it to pizza!
Yun said:
It’s definitely a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Time to introduce it to pizza!
Name it Mikey. He’s the party dude!
I had a turtle like this for over 35 years. They grow pretty big, so be ready for a long commitment!
Vesper said:
I had a turtle like this for over 35 years. They grow pretty big, so be ready for a long commitment!
How large do they get? Mine seems to be growing super fast!
Vesper said:
I had a turtle like this for over 35 years. They grow pretty big, so be ready for a long commitment!
How large do they get? Mine seems to be growing super fast!
Ours reached the size of a dinner plate. They need plenty of space to grow and thrive.
@Weston
Wow, I didn’t expect them to get that big! Thanks for the heads up.
Phoenix said:
@Weston
Wow, I didn’t expect them to get that big! Thanks for the heads up.
Yep, they can grow up to 12 inches across. Be sure to provide a spacious tank with a good water setup.