The Extremely Rare Two Headed Red-Eared Slider Turtle

The two headed turtle is an extremely uncommon anomaly that occasionally occurs in reptile clutch hatchings. While most do not survive long after hatching, the red-eared slider turtle's hardiness gives two headed individuals a better chance. Read on to learn all about these rare finds and their special care requirements.

Overview of the Red-Eared Slider Turtle

The Two Headed Red Eared Slider Turtle for sale, scientific name Trachemys scripta elegans, is a popular aquatic turtle species kept commonly kept as pets. Native to the southern United States and northern Mexico, these turtles thrive in warm environments.

Typical Size and Lifespan

As adults, red-eared sliders reach sizes of 8-12 inches. Properly housed and fed sliders can live 20-30 years on average. Their long lifespans and manageable size make them a popular choice for pet turtle enthusiasts.

Distinctive Coloring

Red-eared sliders get their name from the distinctive red markings around the ears which stand out against the dark green head. The top shell ranges from dark green to olive with yellow spotting, while the bottom shell is yellow.

Semi-aquatic Nature

Red-eared sliders spend most of their time in the water but require a dry basking area to emerge onto. In the wild they inhabit ponds, marshes, rivers with warm, still water and plenty of sun exposure.

The Extreme Rarity of Two Headed Turtles

Caused by Partial Twinning

Two headed turtle embryos likely occur due to partial twinning. Normally, identical twins fully separate and develop into two individuals. But in rare cases, the twins only partially divide leaving conjoined twins sharing parts of a single body.

Very Low Hatching Survival Rate

Even if a two headed turtle hatches successfully, survival is difficult. Competition between the two heads makes feeding and coordinated movement incredibly challenging. Most do not live longer than a few weeks.

Higher Success in Hardy Slider Species

The red-eared slider turtle is one of the hardier turtle species that offers better viability. Their sturdy bodies and ability to thrive in captivity gives two headed individuals a better chance.

Truly One-in-a-Million Finds!

While figures are uncertain, it's estimated that only 1 in 100,000 to 1 million turtle eggs may hatch with two live heads. Even large scale turtle breeders may never encounter this phenomenon. Two headed turtles are exceptionally rare.

Acquiring a Captive Bred Two Headed Slider

Occur Naturally in Captive Clutches

Responsible turtle breeders do not intentionally create two headed turtles through artificial manipulation. But occasionally a natural anomaly will occur in a fertile clutch. If the hatchling survives, the breeder may offer it for sale.

Support Reputable Breeders

Always source two headed turtles from licensed, humane breeders. Avoid any dealer offering wild-caught specimens. Two headed turtles should never be intentionally produced.

Be Prepared for Short Lives

Due to the challenges of their condition, two headed turtles often have shorter life spans even with the best care. Their time may be short but proper husbandry can maximize their comfort and lifespan potential.

Unique Educational Experience

Caring for a two headed turtle offers a profoundly unique experience. While requiring extra work, their rarity makes them fascinating animals to steward temporarily and learn from.

Housing Considerations for Two Headed Turtles

Successfully keeping a two headed turtle requires making some adjustments to create the most functional habitat possible.

Extra-large Tank Recommended

A 100+ gallon aquarium or outdoor pond provides needed room for two heads to navigate and move easily. Water depth should allow both heads to reach the surface.

Multiple Access Points

Having two basking platforms, ramps, and feeding areas allows each head to access essential spots without conflict. Reduce competition between the heads.

Assisted Feeding

Offer foods individually to each head with feeding tongs. Ensure both are able to eat a balanced diet. Monitor weight closely.

Extra Filtration Power

The turtle's doubled biological load will create more waste. Use strong external canister filters rated for at least twice the normal tank size.

Diet and Health Care Essentials

A Two Headed Red Eared Slider Turtle for sale has greater dietary requirements and health considerations. Work closely with an exotic vet to optimize care.

High Calorie Carnivore Diet

Feed a diverse diet very high in proteins and calcium. Offer krill, shrimp, insects, pellets, live feeders frequently in extra portions.

Vitamin and Calcium Supplements

Dust foods with supplements at every feeding to prevent deficiencies. Support bone health.

Medications As Needed

Follow vet advice for topical antibiotics or other medicine if skin sores or infections develop between the heads. Keep area very clean.

Specialist Exotic Vet Care

Schedule visits with an experienced herp vet every 2-4 months to monitor for any emerging health issues. Address problems quickly.

Observing Behavior and Changes

Caring for a two headed turtle offers amazing opportunities to make scientific observations of this rare anomaly.

Documenting Activities

Keep detailed records and photographs tracking each head's behaviors and changes over time. Note feeding, movement, interactions.

Achieving Milestones

Seeing your two headed turtle reach major milestones like feeding independently, swimming skillfully, and interacting socially can be profoundly rewarding. Celebrate every accomplishment!

Personality Development

Does one head seem more dominant? Do they have different behavior quirks or food preferences? Tracking personalities is insightful.

Providing Enrichment

Find ways to enrich the turtle's environment through space to swim, lighting options, novel foods, and sensory elements. Support their wellbeing.

The Value of Caring for Rare Turtles

Being trusted to care for a rare two headed turtle is a temporary but meaningful privilege. While their time on earth may be short, dedicated husbandry helps maximize their quality of life during the time they have. The experience provides invaluable memories and reminders of the wonders of biology and nature. With attentive care guided by specialists, a two headed turtle can live a surprisingly full life in captivity as a cherished pet.