Red-eared Terrapin - Trachemys scripta subsp. elegans

Description

Usually between 20 and 33 cm, with the females being larger than the males. Also known as Red-eared Slider. The red stripe on each side of the head distinguishes it from other species.

Identification difficulty
Habitat

Mainly aquatic and found in ponds and lakes.

When to see it

Spring to autumn.

Life History

Red-eared Terrapins are almost entirely aquatic but leave the water to bask in the sun and lay eggs. They were originally imported to be sold as pets, as small youngsters that can be kept easily in a fish tank. However, as they grow to adult size many owners are unable to cope with their needs and they either escape or are illegally released into local ponds, where they now can be found. They will hibernate in the colder months except in very mild periods.

UK Status

Becoming widespread and probably increasing in numbers in Britain.

VC55 Status

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland, but possibly increasing in numbers.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2020+ | 2015-2019 | pre-2015

UK Map

Species profile

Common names
Red-eared Terrapin, Red-eared Slider
Species group:
Reptiles
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Testudines
Family:
Emydidae
Records on NatureSpot:
19
First record:
14/07/2005 (Jones, Dick)
Last record:
07/06/2022 (Bell, Melinda)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

The latest images and records displayed below include those awaiting verification checks so we cannot guarantee that every identification is correct. Once accepted, the record displays a green tick.

In the Latest Records section, click on the header to sort A-Z, and again to sort Z-A. Use the header boxes to filter the list.

Latest images

Latest records