Here are the new regs for RES in Florida.
Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) passed new
regulations regarding the importation, possession, and sale of
red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) in the state. This
regulation was passed because non-native red-eared sliders can
interbreed with Florida's native yellow-bellied sliders (Trachemys
scripta scripta).
As of JULY 1st, 2007, red-eared sliders (RES) can no longer be sold in
the state, and only licensed COMMERCIAL DEALERS may import RES into
the state for breeding and re-sale out of the state. "Color morphs"
of RES, such as albinos and unusual color variations known as
"pastels," may still be sold in Florida, as these pricey individuals
are less likely to be released into native waters or survive for long
if released.
Private owners of "normal phase" RES may not acquire additional
specimens, and if their turtles reproduce, they should destroy all
eggs before they hatch. Any offspring that hatch will have to be
surrendered to certified RES adopters or dealers, or euthanized.
After January 1st, 2008, it will be illegal for the public to have a
red-eared slider smaller than 4 inches in carapace length.
The new rule also requires a solid fence or planking buried at least 6
inches under the ground for red-eared sliders kept outside.
Non-residents wishing to move to Florida with their pet RES should
contact the FWC before moving to check on the legality of bring RES
into Florida as part of a household move.
FWC will issue permits to qualified research institutions, exhibitors,
and dealers to possess red-eared sliders. FWC is working to establish
a pet adoption network for non-native fish and wildlife, including
red-eared sliders. If you have questions about your pet red-eared
slider or are interested in becoming a certified adopter of unwanted
nonnative pets, contact Jenny Novak, Division of Habitat and Species
Conservation, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, 620 S.
Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32301, or at jenny.novak@ MyFWC.com or
(850) 926-0128.
Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) passed new
regulations regarding the importation, possession, and sale of
red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) in the state. This
regulation was passed because non-native red-eared sliders can
interbreed with Florida's native yellow-bellied sliders (Trachemys
scripta scripta).
As of JULY 1st, 2007, red-eared sliders (RES) can no longer be sold in
the state, and only licensed COMMERCIAL DEALERS may import RES into
the state for breeding and re-sale out of the state. "Color morphs"
of RES, such as albinos and unusual color variations known as
"pastels," may still be sold in Florida, as these pricey individuals
are less likely to be released into native waters or survive for long
if released.
Private owners of "normal phase" RES may not acquire additional
specimens, and if their turtles reproduce, they should destroy all
eggs before they hatch. Any offspring that hatch will have to be
surrendered to certified RES adopters or dealers, or euthanized.
After January 1st, 2008, it will be illegal for the public to have a
red-eared slider smaller than 4 inches in carapace length.
The new rule also requires a solid fence or planking buried at least 6
inches under the ground for red-eared sliders kept outside.
Non-residents wishing to move to Florida with their pet RES should
contact the FWC before moving to check on the legality of bring RES
into Florida as part of a household move.
FWC will issue permits to qualified research institutions, exhibitors,
and dealers to possess red-eared sliders. FWC is working to establish
a pet adoption network for non-native fish and wildlife, including
red-eared sliders. If you have questions about your pet red-eared
slider or are interested in becoming a certified adopter of unwanted
nonnative pets, contact Jenny Novak, Division of Habitat and Species
Conservation, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, 620 S.
Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32301, or at jenny.novak@ MyFWC.com or
(850) 926-0128.