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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-red-eared-slider-lifespan

How long can a pet red-eared slider live in captivity, per California wildlife officials?

Up to 40 years.

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  1. About 2 years
  2. Up to 5 years
  3. Up to 40 years ✔

Why: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says red-eared sliders can live up to 40 years in captivity. The tiny turtle sold as a cute baby can become a decades-long job.

Huh, didn't know that: The same agency gives a maximum of 20 years in the wild and 40 years in captivity.

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Why did the turtle cross the road? To get to the Shell station.
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References

Answer: Up to 40 years. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says red-eared sliders can live up to 40 years in captivity. The tiny turtle sold as a cute baby can become a decades-long job.

  1. California's Invaders: Red-Eared Slider (California Department of Fish and Wildlife) wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/invasives/species/redeared-slider
    In captivity, they can live for up to 40 years or up to 20 years in the wild.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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