If somebody says that they got a new pet turtle, there’s a big chance that it’s a red-eared slider. This species is the most popular in the United States. It’s also common as a pet across the globe.

Red-eared slider turtles can live a good life in a secure outdoor pond, and can be quite entertaining to watch. Credit: Braastad family photo In 1975, red-eared slider turtles with shells measuring ...