Photo by Chris Brown

Scientific name: Trachemys scripta

Common name: Slider / Red-eared Slider

INTRODUCED: Native to eastern U.S.

Size: 5.9-11.8 in (15-30 cm)

Distinguishing characters: Carapace has yellow streaking on olive or black shields; bright red, orange or yellow spot behind eyes; head and limbs are dark and striped with yellow; jagged rear edge of carapace.

Juveniles: Green coloration of carapace much brighter as juvenile. See upper right-hand picture.

Dimorphism: Male is usually darker and has longer nails on front feet than female.

Similar species: Emys marmorata: Has spotted head and limbs, and lacks red spot behind ear.

Additional notes: An aquatic turtle, although found sometimes moving overland to lay eggs or leaving a drying pond. Becoming increasingly more common in urban areas of southern California.