BrumationĬontrary to popular belief, red-eared sliders do not hibernate. They also absorb UV rays, which are vital for vitamin D3 synthesis and the absorption of dietary calcium. Turtles spend a significant amount of their time basking under the sun to keep their internal temperature at the optimal range. They rely on external sources of heat-the sun-to power their metabolism, all of their behaviors, and bodily functions. Red-eared sliders are ectotherms, meaning they do not internally control their body temperature like us “warm-blooded” (endothermic) animals. Communication is limited to breeding purposes, where sliders show the most interaction with others. They are mostly solitary species but congregate in groups in popular basking spots or hunting grounds. They are diurnal, so they are active during the day. Activity LevelsĪside from basking for thermoregulation, red-eared sliders spend time foraging and hunting in the water. They spend their time foraging for food and basking in the sun. They stay close to water sources unless searching for a nest site or a mate. Red-eared sliders are a primarily solitary species. Related: Red-Eared Slider Facts Physical Characteristics Length They often learn to recognize their owners and come to greet them in hopes of a tasty treat. Don’t expect affection from these little turtles they dislike handling. Released in places far from their natural range, their adaptability has made them an invasive species in many areas.ĭespite their hardy nature, sliders still require a specific setup to thrive as a pet. They have colorful markings, fun and active natures, and are tolerant of many environments. But don’t let its tiny size fool you-these guys can get big.Īn adult red-eared slider reaches 12 inches long and weighs about 6 pounds.Red-Eared Sliders are among the most popular species of pet turtles. When you buy a red-eared slider, they might only fit in the crook of your hand. But learning essential care is paramount. They are still considered one of the best turtles you can have as a pet. Since light has shone on the neglect, cruelty, and brutal nature of careless turtle distribution, these guys usually wind up in pretty good homes these days. Today, you might not find a red-ear slider coupon in your Shredded Wheat, but you will find them elsewhere. Many youngsters didn’t know a lot about proper turtle care-and neither did their parents. This marketing hype was more trouble than it was worth, as several baby turtles wound up in bad situations. Soon, these baby turtles were known as dime-store turtles, becoming pets to kids everywhere. They were inexpensive and easy to come by. Suddenly, red-eared sliders were available through companies, at fairs or carnivals, and in pet stores. This marketing tactic boomed, sealing the fate of red-eared slider babies everywhere. Some speculate that the real fascination for pet red-eared sliders began in the 1930s when the Ralston Purina cereal company started advertising coupons for free baby turtles. This semi-aquatic turtle gained quite a bit of traction in the 1950s in the United States. The red-eared slider is native to many southern states across the United States, all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico.
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