Red-eared sliders (often called red-striped turtles) eat a mix of commercial turtle pellets, leafy greens and aquatic plants, with small portions of protein such as feeder fish or insects. Hatchlings eat mostly protein; adults eat mostly plants. Feed young turtles daily and adults every day or two in portions they finish in about 15 minutes.
What red-eared sliders eat
- Pellets. A quality, calcium-rich aquatic turtle pellet should be the base of the diet. Choose a pellet made for sliders and check the label for added vitamin D3 and calcium.
- Leafy greens and plants. Dandelion greens, collard greens, mustard greens, romaine, red leaf lettuce, and aquatic plants such as anacharis, duckweed and water lettuce.
- Protein. Earthworms, crickets, mealworms, snails, shrimp and small feeder fish. Frozen or freeze-dried options work well.
- Occasional fruit. Small pieces of strawberry, melon or apple as a treat.
Diet by age
| Age | Protein | Plants | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchling and juvenile | About 50 to 70% | About 30 to 50% | Daily |
| Adult | About 25% | About 75% | Every 1 to 2 days |
As a rule, offer only what your turtle can finish in about 15 minutes. Overfeeding causes fast, unhealthy growth and fouls the water.
Calcium and vitamin D
Sliders need calcium and vitamin D3 to keep their shells and bones strong. Provide a UVB light (replaced as directed by the maker, usually every 6 to 12 months) and a basking spot, and add a cuttlebone or calcium supplement if your vet recommends one. Soft or misshapen shells are a sign of poor diet or lighting; see a reptile vet.
Foods to avoid
- Wild-caught fish, insects and other prey that may carry parasites or pesticides
- Raw chicken, beef, and processed meats such as hot dogs, which are high in fat and can spread bacteria
- Dairy, bread and sweets
- Iceberg lettuce, which has little nutrition
- Spinach and other very high-oxalate greens in large amounts, which can bind calcium
- Avocado, rhubarb leaves and other toxic plants
Feeding tips
- Feed in the water, since turtles swallow underwater. Feeding in a separate tub keeps the main tank cleaner.
- Vary the food so your turtle does not become picky.
- Use a strong filter and replace part of the water regularly.
- Always wash your hands after handling turtles or their water, because reptiles can carry Salmonella.
For related guides, see what to feed a lake turtle and foods with vitamin A for turtles.
Bottom Line
Build the diet on a quality pellet, add leafy greens and aquatic plants, and use protein as a smaller part as your turtle grows. Provide UVB light and calcium, and see a reptile vet if you notice shell problems, swollen eyes or a loss of appetite.
This is general information, not veterinary advice.
