How to Identify Pet Turtle Species

* Scientific name: Trachemys scripta elegans

* Size: 5-12 inches

* Lifespan: 20-30 years

* Diet: Omnivorous, including plants, insects, and small animals

* Habitat: Ponds, lakes, and streams

* Temperament: Friendly and docile

* Identification: Red stripe behind each eye

Yellow-Bellied Slider

* Scientific name: Trachemys scripta scripta

* Size: 6-10 inches

* Lifespan: 20-30 years

* Diet: Omnivorous, including plants, insects, and small animals

* Habitat: Ponds, lakes, and streams

* Temperament: Friendly and docile

* Identification: Yellow belly

Painted Turtle

* Scientific name: Chrysemys picta

* Size: 4-10 inches

* Lifespan: 10-20 years

* Diet: Omnivorous, including plants, insects, and small animals

* Habitat: Ponds, lakes, and marshes

* Temperament: Shy and skittish

* Identification: Colorful markings on head, neck, and legs

Eastern Box Turtle

* Scientific name: Terrapene carolina carolina

* Size: 4-6 inches

* Lifespan: 30-50 years

* Diet: Omnivorous, including plants, insects, and small animals

* Habitat: Forests, fields, and wetlands

* Temperament: Shy and retiring

* Identification: Hinged shell

Western Box Turtle

* Scientific name: Terrapene ornata

* Size: 4-8 inches

* Lifespan: 30-50 years

* Diet: Omnivorous, including plants, insects, and small animals

* Habitat: Deserts, grasslands, and woodlands

* Temperament: Shy and retiring

* Identification: Domed shell

Three-Toed Box Turtle

* Scientific name: Terrapene carolina triunguis

* Size: 3-5 inches

* Lifespan: 30-50 years

* Diet: Omnivorous, including plants, insects, and small animals

* Habitat: Forests, fields, and wetlands

* Temperament: Shy and retiring

* Identification: Three toes on each foot