RED EARED SLIDER

Red-eared Sliders are not native to the Navajo Nation; in fact there are no native turtles here. These animals are the most common turtles kept as pets in the U.S. Red-eared Sliders are described as semi-aquatic, which means that they spend much of their time in or around ponds and lakes. They usually only leave the water to bask in the sun on a rock or log. This behavior provides them security from predators. These turtles are omnivores, feeding on a variety of aquatic plants and animals.

Turtle is called "Ch'ééh digháhii" or "Tsisteeł" in the Navajo language. Turtle should not be viewed when mating, eating or laying eggs. The shell of the turtle is used to administer herbs in some Navajo ceremonies.