10 facts about the Jamaican slider turtle

The Jamaican slider turtle, also known as the Cat Island slider, is a freshwater turtle (Trachemys terrapin) found only in Jamaica where it is endemic, and the Bahamas where it was introduced. The species of turtles are considered to be endangered due to various threats from habitat destruction and poaching to pollution and climate change. To raise awareness about the Jamaican slider, Observer Plus has compiled a list of 10 facts about the animal below. 1. It is the only native freshwater turtle sp...

The Jamaican slider turtle, also known as the Cat Island slider, is a freshwater turtle (Trachemys terrapin) found only in Jamaica where it is endemic, and the Bahamas where it was introduced.

The species of turtles are considered to be endangered due to various threats from habitat destruction and poaching to pollution and climate change.

To raise awareness about the Jamaican slider, Observer Plus has compiled a list of 10 facts about the animal below.

1. It is the only native freshwater turtle species in Jamaica

2. Jamaican sliders are of moderate size, with males growing up to seven inches and the larger females growing up to 12 inches.

3. Aquatic algae forms the bulk of the species’ diet but they are omnivores, feeding on a variety of fruits and vegetation as well as small fish, snail and frogs.

4. Breeding season in Jamaica typically runs from February to September. Turtles lay three to four clutches per year, with females laying up to eight eggs at a time.

5. The Jamaican slider is a protected species whose population is threatened by poaching; introduced predators such as dogs, cats and mongoose; as well as hybridization with the invasive Red eared slider and the Cuban slider.

6. The turtles gradually lose their colour as they age, resulting in the young turtles being more brightly coloured than the adults.

7. Since the turtles are only found in Jamaica and the Bahamas, it is assumed that the species was introduced from one of those countries to the other. While the long held theory is that the turtles are native to Jamaica, there is reportedly geological evidence that may suggest that they were in the Bahamas before the native Taíno.

8. The turtles are found in many different areas across Jamaica, inhabiting most fresh to brackish wetlands throughout their range, including swamps, streams, rivers and ponds.

9. Sixty per cent of the species’ population in The Bahamas is found on Cat Island, earning it the other name, Cat Island slider.

10. It is an offence to possess, kill or willfully molest these turtles, with perpetrators facing up to a fine of $100,000 or a year in prison.