YELLOW-BELLIED SLIDER
Trachemys scripta scripta
DESCRIPTION
The Yellow-bellied Slider is a semi-aquatic turtle known for its distinctive yellow and black markings. It is commonly found in freshwater habitats across the southeastern United States.
FUN FACTS
- They can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes underwater | Yellow-bellied Sliders are popular pets due to their striking appearance | They are excellent swimmers and can often be seen gliding through the water
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild, up to 40 in captivity
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length15-25 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuregroup — often seen basking together in groups
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Yellow-bellied Sliders inhabit ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers with abundant vegetation. They prefer areas with basking sites and shallow waters.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Wetlands
- Native Range
- Primarily found in the southeastern United States, from Florida to Virginia.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States
- Diet
- This species is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter. Their diet includes aquatic vegetation, insects, and small fish.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, insects, small fish
- Social Structure
- group — often seen basking together in groups
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
1-2 kg
Weight
15-25 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Dark green to brown shell with yellow stripes on the head and neck.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally smaller with longer claws, while females are larger.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild, up to 40 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-20
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, but habitat loss poses a threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, pollution, and predation by domestic animals. They are also collected for the pet trade.
- Predators
- Raccoons, birds of prey, and larger fish.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can retract into their shells for protection.
- Found in Zoos
- Common