Reptile
Yellow-bellied Slider
Trachemys scripta scriptaAlso known as Yellow-bellied Terrapin
Yellow-bellied Sliders are freshwater turtles with yellow-striped heads, yellow lower shells, and dark oval upper shells that become plainer with age. They bask in groups on logs but drop quickly into the water when disturbed.
freshwater turtlebasking reptilewetland omnivore
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preySnails, aquatic insects, tadpoles
Predators
- raccoons
- large birds
- alligators
ThreatsWetland loss, road mortality, collection, pollution, fishing tackle, and released pet populations
HabitatsPonds, lakes, marshes, slow rivers, swamps, canals, and vegetated reservoirs
Life spanCommonly twenty to thirty years, with some individuals living longer
Classification
- FamilyEmydidae
- GenusTrachemys
- SpeciesTrachemys scripta scripta
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskModerate
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is moderate
- Turtles can carry Salmonella and may bite when restrained; avoid contact and wash after accidental touch.
- Why it is dangerous
- Turtles may carry Salmonella without visible illness, and their jaws and claws can injure a handler.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Confirm yellow facial stripes and lower-shell markings from a distance rather than lifting the turtle.
- What to do
- Do not handle or relocate it; after unavoidable contact, wash hands thoroughly and keep them away from the face.
Responsible observation
- Identify: Look for broad yellow head stripes and a mostly yellow lower shell.
- Observe: Keep back from basking logs so turtles do not repeatedly flee into water.
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