NATURAL HABITAT:
Inhabits ponds and water estuaries from Central to Southern U.S.A. Usually friendly and usually easy to handle.
CAPTIVE ENVIRONMENT:
To successfully keep Red Ear Sliders requires aquariums in the range of 30 to 60 gallons. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. You may use sand or gravel substrates. Landscape to provide basking and drying areas for the turtle with branches, logs, rocks & plants.
LIGHTING:
Full-Spectrum lighting that emits UVB is a must for captive reptiles. Reptiles depend on ultra-violet light to synthesize vitamin D3, which regulates calcium absorption in the intestine. The light should be positioned less than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air circulation, therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received.
TEMPERATURE:
Provide a temperature range between 70F and 86F they also need a basking area with a temperature of 95F. These temperature ranges may be hard to acheive in small aquariums. Use a submersible heater to maintain water temperature. Use spotlights for basking heat red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element should be used to maintain day / night light cycle. Always use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
HUMIDITY:
This species requires moderate levels of humidity.
WATER:
Maintain 4" - 8" of de-chlorinated water. Change water with a gravel siphon frequently to remove detritus. Use an aquarium filter to help maintain water quality. Clean filter pads often and replace them monthly.
FOOD:
This species is an omnivore (eat both plant and animal matter). They will do well on a diet consisting of pelleted turtle food, a variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects (such as crickets, mealworms and wax worms), goldfish and other small fish, and dark leafy greens (such as kale, collard greens, mustard greens, etc.). Some individuals will also eat prepared foods such as canned turtle food.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it. To Purchase a starter kit for your Red Ear Slider Turtle click here
