Red-eared Slider
(Trachemys scripta elegans)
“Squirt” & “Sheldon”
Quick Facts:
Common Name: Red-eared Slider
Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta elegans
Native Range: Mississippi River Basin (introduced worldwide)
Habitat: Lakes, ponds, and slow rivers
Diet: Omnivorous—plants, insects, and small aquatic animals
Conservation Status: Not Threatened; invasive in many regions
Burpee’s Red-eared Slider is bright and lively, displaying the species’ signature red markings behind the eyes. Though common, it plays an important role in helping visitors understand the challenges of introduced species.
Connections to the Museum
This turtle provides a platform for discussing invasive species ecology. While native to parts of the U.S., its global introduction through the pet trade parallels human-driven dispersal patterns found in paleontological and ecological research.
Natural History & Behavior
Red-eared Sliders are hardy, adaptable turtles. They bask in groups and feed on diverse plant and animal material. Their success stems from tolerance of variable temperatures and habitats.
Evolutionary Connections
The species belongs to a broad radiation of pond turtles that emerged during the Pliocene. Their adaptability exemplifies natural selection favoring generalist traits.
Wild Habitat & Distribution
Native to the Mississippi Basin, introduced to every continent except Antarctica.
Conservation & Status
Stable in native range but ecologically disruptive elsewhere. At Burpee, this species highlights human responsibility in managing pet releases and global biodiversity.
SNAKES:
Ball Python
Western Hognose Snake
Blood Python
TURTLES:
Sulcata Tortoise
Spotted Turtle
River Cooter
LIZARDS:
Argentine Tegu
Plated Lizard
Bearded Dragon
ARTHROPODS:
Desert Millipede
Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
