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Why is my male red ear slider biting the female? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

my male red ear slider has been trying to bite my female red ear slider, What should I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 28th, 2017

You should separate them. When confined in a tank or other small area, red ear sliders (RES) can exhibit a dominating behavior towards other tank mates. Turtles can easily injure one another with their bites. Males may endlessly pursue females which is probably what is happening with yours. Harassment can escalate to serious aggression such as fighting which can result in cuts, loss of limbs or even death. Adding a new turtle may immediately cause aggression and bullying, while some turtles harass more after they develop sexually. Males seem to be more likely to fight each other and harass females. Wish I had an easier solution for you but separating them would be best.

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