Red-eared Slider Terrapin Trachemys scripta elegans

Red-eared Sliders
Terrapin
The Red-eared Slider is called a Terrapin in Europe and a Turtle in its native USA. A freshwater chelonian, it is semi-terrestrial/semi-aquatic, with dual-purpose clawed feet/flippers.
Red-eared Slider
Red-eared Slider ballet
Red-eared Slider Terrapin
It is now feral in many European countries, including the UK, following releases and escapees from the pet trade (especially after the Ninja Turtle craze of the 1990s).
Red-eared Slider
Red-eared Slider Terrapin
Red-eared Slider Terrapin
As a terrapin, it is at home in the water and on land. (In Europe, "turtles" are entirely aquatic, except when females lay eggs, and "tortoises" are entirely terrestrial).
Red-eared Slider
Red-eared Slider Terrapin
Red-eared and Yellow-bellied Sliders
Named after the two red streaks on its head (not always clear/visible) and its habit of quietly sliding into water at the approach of perceived danger. Above right includes a Yellow-bellied Slider.
Red-eared Slider Shell colour can vary
Red-eared Slider Terrapin as can the pattern of neck stripes
Red-eared Slider Terrapin The slit "reptilian" eye has a barred pupil
Red-eared Slider face The face and beak
Red-eared Slider Terrapin plastron The plastron (underside)
Red-eared Slider Terrapin A large and elderly terrapin
Red-eared Slider The lily pond
Non-conformist Terrapin The non-conformist (or rear look-out)
Someday my son "Someday, my son, all this will be yours."