Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Red-eared slider care guide
Trachemys scripta elegans
The red-eared slider is a beginner-level semi-aquatic turtle from Mississippi River valley, USA. Adults reach 20–30 cm shell (females) and live 30–40 years in captivity. Mostly aquatic: needs a large water section (450 L+ for adults), strong filter and dry basking dock. Never release.
- Enclosure 240 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Water 24–27°C, basking 32–35°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a red-eared slider cost in Canada?
Red-eared slider quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 20–30 cm shell (females)
- Lifespan
- 30–40 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Mississippi River valley, USA
- Minimum enclosure
- 240 × 60 × 60 cm (94 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 228 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 24–27°C, basking 32–35°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Omnivore – turtle pellets, leafy greens, aquatic plants, occasional fish or insects
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Red-eared slider enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 240 × 60 × 60 cm (94 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: Water 24–27°C, basking 32–35°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Required.
What does a red-eared slider eat?
Omnivore – turtle pellets, leafy greens, aquatic plants, occasional fish or insects. Feed juveniles daily; adults pellets 3–4 times a week with greens offered daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Tolerates brief handling but scratches and may bite; wash hands after (Salmonella).
Health watch: Shell rot, respiratory infections from cold water and vitamin A deficiency.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a red-eared slider bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (240 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Red-eared slider FAQ
Is the red-eared slider good for beginners?
Yes – the red-eared slider is a good choice for beginners. Tolerates brief handling but scratches and may bite; wash hands after (Salmonella).
What size enclosure does a red-eared slider need?
At least 240 × 60 × 60 cm (about 94 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 228 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a red-eared slider cost in Canada?
Typically $25–60 CAD to buy, about $1360–2450 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–600 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a red-eared slider need?
Temperature: Water 24–27°C, basking 32–35°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a red-eared slider eat?
Omnivore – turtle pellets, leafy greens, aquatic plants, occasional fish or insects. Feed juveniles daily; adults pellets 3–4 times a week with greens offered daily.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.