The southeastern states of the USA are home to a variety of turtle species, including the yellow-bellied turtle. Although genetically close to the red-eared slider, they sometimes interbreed with the latter species. In some states, restrictions on the pet trade of red-eared sliders are in place to protect the purity of wild populations of yellow-bellied sliders.
Yellow-bellied turtles are highly sought-after in the pet industry and are commonly found in ponds, swamps, and marshes. They are most active in the early morning and tend to stay close to lush algae growth in their natural habitat.
Fully-grown yellow-bellied sliders have a carapace that is typically between 8 and 10 inches (20.3 and 25.4cm) long, with females occasionally measuring up to 11 inches (27.9cm). While the top shell may appear brown and black, the bottom shell is a vivid yellow with green spots. The scales are predominantly olive-green, with yellow blotches on the neck and legs.
Yellow-bellied turtles can be housed indoors or outdoors, but it’s essential to consider their eventual size. While hatchlings can be kept in a 15-gallon tank, adults will require a tank that can hold 60 gallons. If you plan to keep two turtles together, you’ll need to upgrade the tank capacity by 20 gallons. Provide a basking platform with a temperature of at least 80 Fahrenheit (26.6 degrees Celsius) and allow the temperature to drop slightly at night.
Like many other types of turtles, hatchlings primarily feed on meat such as insects, spiders, tadpoles, and worms. In nature, they may stay confined to the nest until spring. Male yellow-bellied turtles tend to feed on animal matter more frequently than females. Pond plants such as elodea and cabomba, as well as Romaine lettuce, escarole, and collard greens, can also be included in their diet. As juveniles mature into adults, their bright colors become fainter. They typically feed when submerged in water and should not be given non-aquatic vegetable matter, as this will rot.
Yellow-bellied turtles are known for their friendly and easy-going nature, making them popular pets. However, it’s important to handle them with care to avoid causing pain or discomfort since the carapace is attached to the skin. Taphibians offers a great range of info about these turtles.