Trachemys scripta elegans

(Wied, 1838)

Vernacular names
English : Red-eared slider
French : Tortue à tempes rouges

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Testudines
Family : Emydidae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a shell length of 29 cm for a weight of 3,2 kg. Shell domed with sharp edges. Dark brown with variable yellowish markings. Dark green head and neck with irregular yellow lines and broad bright red band behind eyes.

Range and habitat
This subspecies is found from southeast Colorado to Texas and nearby north-east Mexico, eastwards to Virginia and Florida. Introduced around the world. Lives in all kinds of areas with still or slow-moving warm waters in lowlands.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species can tolerate a wide variety of habitats. This turtle subspecies has been introduced around the world and is very invasive.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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