Pond Slider

Range

Native range is southeastern and central United States and northern Mexico. However, introduced range includes Canada, central Mexico, Hawaii, California, Arizona, Michigan, and the east coast of the United States.

Habitats

Semi-aquatic. Found in freshwater and brackish environments including ponds, lakes, rivers, swamps, streams, lagoons, farm ponds. Can be found terrestrially in forests or grasslands near water.

Identification

Adult length between 4 and 11 inches, with females larger than males. Oval shaped carapace, rough in texture with varying indentations, coloration occurs in shades of green, yellow, gray, brown, or black. Flat and smooth plastron, lighter in color than carapace with black streaks or spots. Skin dark green and brown. Oblong heads with upward pointing snouts. Webbed feet with five digits on each limb.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians