How to tell the sex of a Red Eared Slider

lamamireicy

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Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
I have two red eared slider turtles since they were very young and we have been waiting for them to mature so we can know weather they are boys or girls. I believe they are now big enough and i was told you should be able to tell by looking at their tales. well, i cant. Can any one help me figure out weather i have females or males.

Excuse turtle #1.. she/he did not want to come out of his/her shell

Turtle #1.jpegTurtle#1.jpegTurtle # 2.jpegTurtle #2.jpeg
 

Toddrickfl1

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Turtle number 2 is female. Turtle number 1 looks female too but I'd need to see a picture of the front claws to confirm.
 

Toddrickfl1

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Males have really big tails and front claws compared to females. Here's a picture of one of my young males for comparison.IMG_20200309_103531046.jpgIMG_20200309_103612807.jpg
 

Markw84

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Both look female at this stage. It is indeed the front claws on sliders that is the first easy secondary secual characteristic that develops. By 4-5" a male slider (or painted, map, or cooter) will have dramatically elongated (Edward Scissorhands) claws. The tail will also thicken and elongate - often a bit later. Look for the cloaca to be well beyond the edge of the rear of the carapace.
 
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