Trachemys scripta elegans

Also known as Red-Eared Terrapin, Red-Eared Slider Turtle, Pond Slider

Red-eared sliders spend warm mornings basking in dense groups on floating logs, dropping into the water at the slightest disturbance. Recognized by a bold red patch behind each eye, these semi-aquatic turtles feed on water plants, small invertebrates, and fish. Introduced globally through the pet trade, feral populations now aggressively outcompete native turtles for food and basking sites.