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Scientific name: Trachemys scripta
Common name: Slider / Red-eared Slider
INTRODUCED: Native to eastern U.S.
Size: 5.9-11.8 in (15-30 cm)
Distinguishing characters: Carapace has yellow streaking on olive or black shields; bright red, orange or yellow spot behind eyes; head and limbs are dark and striped with yellow; jagged rear edge of carapace.
Juveniles: Green coloration of carapace much brighter as juvenile. See upper right-hand picture.
Dimorphism: Male is usually darker and has longer nails on front feet than female.
Similar species: Clemmys marmorata: Has spotted head and limbs, and lacks red spot behind ear.
Additional notes: An aquatic turtle, although found sometimes moving overland to lay eggs or leaving a drying pond. Becoming increasingly more common in urban areas of southern California.
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