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Teenage Mutant Red-Eared Slider
If you have yet to come across the name Red Eared Slider, fret not, because we are certain you have seen them at least once in your life. Unfortunately it isn’t a new character in the cartoon, but the Red Eared Slider is Singapore’s most commonly sold pet terrapin, and while they may look absolutely adorable when they are young, they are often abandoned when they grow rapidly. Go through this article if you or your child is considering one!
The Red Eared Slider
Also known as Red
Eared Terrapin, or Terrapin (because it is sooo common in Singapore), this
species originated from South of United States, and North Mexico. The term
slider was given in relation to the terrapin’s nature of “sliding” off rocks
and surfaces to get back into water.
Did you know, that
the Red Eared Slider is considered a popular choice of pet throughout the
world? Also, it has made the top 100 list for the world’s most invasive
species, due to a ton of irresponsible releasing by pet owners.
Appearance
It should come by no
surprise why this species is named Red Eared Sliders, for they spot noticeable
red patches right behind their eyes, giving them “red ears”. They have a
slightly flattened oval carapace (think, shell), a dark green hue on face, arms
and legs, coupled with irregularly patterned stripes in a lighter shade of
green, close to yellow.
One difference many
have spotted between a female and male Red Eared Slider is the length of their
front claws, apparently a Male has longer claws than a female. Also, there is a significant difference in size and length of their tails. Colour of their
carapaces vary according to age, reportedly a change of colour while they age,
from light green to dark, then to brown sometimes.
Personality
It is normal for a
turtle to behave as a shy and easily frightened pet, and their shells serve the
purpose of hiding and protection. Though, in captivity, some Red Eared Sliders
have been known to approach their owners for food.
If you do experience aggression
in your pet terrapins, it is probably caused by sudden movements or that they
are frightened. Aggression equals fear, this saying never gets old when
referring to pets. They are otherwise docile as they come.
Housing
The Red Eared Slider is
semi-aquatic, as such, they would require an ideal tank that is able to hold
water, and raised spots for them to rest and sun bask at any time of the day. A
screened top lid is perfect for preventing your terrapins from escaping, not to
mention keeping out pesky insects.
You may start off
with a large tank for these guys can grow up to 30 centimetres (OMG), or
upgrade you tank space as they grow, they definitely require ample space to
take a short swim, rest in shallow waters, and a docking area to sun bask.
Owners often include a lamp strong enough to mimic sunlight, preferably bulbs
that can withstand long hours of usage, with UVA and UVB rays. Always ensure
that any rock or accessory placed within the tank is not small enough to be
swallowed by the Terrapins.
Hygiene
Like most turtles,
Red Eared Sliders are known to be messy eaters. Check the tank regularly and
scoop out any uneaten food or faecal matter left behind by the terrapins. It not
only contributes to dirt build up, but stench as well. Owners are advised to
clean their tanks at least once a week, a good scrub down of tank surfaces and accessories
with water. Regular soap should not be used as residue can cause serious and
fatal harm to your pet terrapins. Be sure to use a "turtle friendly" cleaning solution diluted in water only if necessary, and as advised by reptile experts or pet shops.
Tank water should
remain at room temperature before placing the terrapins back again. If you do
find your terrapin’s carapace looking like they could use a good rinse too,
remember they can still feel you through their shells, so only lightly scrub
them with a soft bristle brush to get the dirt off. To ease of the process of
cleaning the entire tank, some owners include a good water filter for their
tanks, an investment worthy item in our honest opinion!
Food
The Red Eared Slider is
an omnivore, which means they can thrive on both greens and small animals. A
suggested diet for a terrapin is usually commercial food pellets, followed by
occasional treats of freeze dried shrimps, insects like crickets and also meal-worms.
Leafy greens are good for them too! A terrapin’s source of water comes from the
water in their habitat, which is why tank cleanliness plays a huge part in
keeping your terrapins happy.
Ownership In Singapore
As we have mentioned
earlier, The Red Eared Slider is readily available and the most common terrapin
you can find almost ANYWHERE. Sadly, these guys are often bought on impulse,
because they are incredibly cute when they are young at only the length of 2
centimetres at first.
They have a lifespan of 20 years, and more with proper
care, which makes them as good as a long term pet and companion. But this takes
a toll on many owners, as the Red Tail Slider grows older, it grows in size as
well (up to 30 centimetres). For those terrapins that do not make it to an old
age, it is usually due to the lack of knowledge in a lot of kids and adults
alike.
Adoption In Singapore
Local Shelters do not
recommend The Red Eared Slider Terrapin to be a good choice of pet, they come
with a long term commitment, and they do require a good amount of space as they
grow into adulthood. Many current owners are strongly advised to not release
them irresponsibly into the wild, but to find adopters instead. So if you are
seriously considering owning a Red Eared Slider as a pet, please ensure you are
prepared to take care of them for 20 years or more, and lookout for available
options online!
Aquatic turtles need big tanks with lots of water. In this website, you’ll learn how to find the best red-eared slider tank for you. Check out reptileprofy today!
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