Yellow-bellied Slider
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The yellow-bellied slider (Trachemys scripta scripta) is one of three native pond slider species.
Slow moving water bodies like ponds and lakes of the South are its native habitat, where adults feed largely on local vegetation.
Like its better known relative, the red-eared slider, the yellow-bellied slider has been a popular pet store species, and reports of its presence in areas outside of its native range are increasing as pet owners release it into the wild.
The yellow mark on the side of the head is a good field identification clue. The long nails on the front feet are indicative of males.
© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels