Red-eared slider

Description:

The Red-Eared Slider is a species of freshwater turtle, ranging in size from 12-30cm in length. They have olive green shells and skin, patterned with yellow stripes. Their under-shell appears yellow to brownish-orange. This species is characterised by thick red stripes behind their eyes. 

Basic biology:

This species courts and mates in the water during the spring and summer, after which females lay eggs in holes in the soil. Females become reproductively mature once they reach lengths of around 16-17cm. The sex of offspring is determined by the temperature experienced by the embryos during development. 

Distribution in Malta:

This species is mainly found in public ponds around the islands. 

Global distribution:

Cambodia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand and the USA.

Condition:

Non-native.

Map of confirmed presence:

Please note that this map is not exhaustive, but does indicate where there have been confirmed observations of this species.

We invite you to submit any additional observations using the form provided here.