Red-eared Slider Turtles are an exotic pest that competes with native turtles for food and basking sites. They get their name from the small red dash around their ears, and from their ability to slide off rocks and logs and into the water quickly.

Listed in the top 100 Feral Animals of the World, they are a Declared Pest Species across Australia and it is illegal import them into Australia or keep them as pets.

In the Canterbury-Bankstown area, Red-eared Slider Turtles have been sighted basking on rocks near ponds. However, when the weather is warm and wet these turtles may be seen wandering away from ponds in search of places to lay eggs.

How do I tell the difference between a Red-eared Slider Turtle and a native turtle?

Sydney is home to several species of native turtle, including the Eastern Long-necked Turtle and Murray Short-necked Turtle. The Red-eared Slider Turtle's most distinguishing feature is the red patch behind each eye, although this fades with age.

• Learn how to identify a Red-eared Slider Turtle

What if I see a Red-eared Slider Turtle?

Report all sightings of Red-eared Slider Turtles.

If you see a Red-eared Slider Turtle note your location, take a photo of it and report it to the Department of Primary Industries using the online reporting form.

If you have caught a Red-eared Slider Turtle, please contact the Department of Primary Industries on 02 6391 3525 to arrange for it to be collected safety. 

What if I have a Red-eared Slider Turtle at home?

It is illegal to keep Red-eared Slider Turtle as pets.

Do not release Red-eared Slider Turtles into creeks, rivers or park ponds. If you have an exotic turtle that you no longer want, please report it for surrender to the Department of Primary Industries.

Find out more

• Department of Primary Industries website​