Turtles are reptiles with short, broad bodies enclosed in a bony shell.
The bone of the shell is usually covered by horny plates, or by leathery skin. Red-eared sliders got their name because of the broad, red stripe that runs along the side of the head. Because they are gentle and attractive creatures they are very popular as pets. Unfortunately, they seldom reach maturity in captivity because they do not receive vitamins and minerals they need. They live in ponds and rivers in the United States, but frequently climb out of the water to bask, often on logs, where they may pile up several deep.