Case File: turtle
Trachemys scripta elegans
Size: The red-eared slider turtle is medium-sized, with a shell length of 12.5 to 28 cm.
Colour: Red-eared slider turtles have a dark green shell, occasionally with yellow or black markings as circular blotches. Their underside is bright yellow with black rings.
Distinctive Features: Red-eared slider turtles have a broad red or orange stripe behind each eye with narrow yellow stripes marking the rest of the black body, neck, legs and tail. Their shell is dome-shaped, likened to the shape of a helmet.
Behaviour: Red-eared slider turtles are almost entirely aquatic, but as they are cold-blooded, they leave the water to sunbathe (also referred to as basking) to regulate their temperature.
Last Seen: 79 red-eared slider turtles have been detected in Victoria since 1999.
Facts & How You Can Help
The red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans), originates from the midwestern states of the United States and northeastern Mexico.
Red-eared slider turtles are classified as a Controlled Pest Animal under the Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994. The importation, keeping, breeding and trading of this species, without appropriate permits, is illegal and penalties apply.
The Red-eared slider turtle is a very adaptable and opportunistic invasive animal that has the ability to populate a wide range of fresh water ecosystems. The red-eared slider turtles found in Victoria are most likely an escapee or deliberately released animal from the illegal pet trade.
The illegal keeping of red-eared slider turtles poses one of the greatest risks of the species establishing in Victoria. Red-eared slider turtles contend with native turtles for food, sunbathing (basking) sites, nesting sites, and suitable habitats. Given their larger adult size, aggressive nature, and higher reproductive rate, red-eared slider turtles often have a competitive advantage against our native turtles. Red-eared slider turtles can also carry exotic diseases and parasites which can be transmitted to native wildlife.
If you see any suspicious activity involving the potential importing, keeping, breeding, trading, or release of Red-eared slider turtles in Victoria, you can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800 333 000 or via our website.
Please Note: You should never attempt to approach or handle a Red-eared slider in the wild.
If you encounter a Red-eared slider, dial 000 immediately.