Red eared sliders are native in the south of the United States. Because of accidental and intentional release, feral populations of sliders are now found in many countries outside their native area. This is a serious problem. The released red eared sliders will compete for survival with native species, which can become extinct because of this. Eating patron Adult turtle feeds primarily on aquatic plants.
Young turtles are mostly carnivorous, gradually switching to vegetation as they age.
Size Males reach up to about 20 cm. Females can reach up to 30 cm and can weigh about 2 kilos. In the wild RES can live about 20 years, but in captivity some specimens have been reported to live up to 40 years. Red eared sliders are mature enough for breeding when they are 5 years of age, this is when the female shell size is about 15 cm. The skin and shell of the turtle is dark green with yellow stripes and bars.