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I have a 21 year old RES female (bought her in March 1987). Her name is Jacky. Actually, when I got her, I forgot to ask for the gender. I only asked for the age and was told 'less' than two years old. A few days later, I thought about it, but didn't want to go back to the store. Based on what I've read the RES I have is a female. She has a shorter tail than males I've seen and the base of the tail is wider (to give birth, I presume). Her claws are shorter as well.

Welcome! I'm impressed by the age of your turtle...she's almost older than me, lol. What kind of set up do you have for her? We love to see pictures too.

Welcome, has your turtle ever laid any eggs in the water?

Pugness wrote:Welcome, has your turtle ever laid any eggs in the water?

No, she's celibate.

Welcome... you registered last June?

Female RES will lay infertile eggs, mine is only 3 years old and has already done so.

Welcome to the forum.

Hi and welcome. What are you feeding your RES that is contributing to her longevity? I'd love to see a pic of her.

steve wrote:Welcome... you registered last June?

Female RES will lay infertile eggs, mine is only 3 years old and has already done so.

Right after I registered, something came up and I forgot all about this forum until recently (never got to make my 1st post). I even had to reactivate my account.

I never saw any eggs in the water so it looks like I have a male. I thought his claws were too short to be a male, although he's about the right length to be a male (bet. 7 & 9 inches). I feel a little embarrassed that I didn't know the gender of my RES for so long. I usually alternated between calling him Jack and Jackie.

I mostly feed him a variety of turtle pellets. I tried some other things like fish & vegetables, but he preferred the pellets. When I tried the fish, all he did was investigate and then he moved away. I think they annoyed him so after three days, I removed them & continued feeding him the pellets. I've noticed that his appetite improves in the Spring.

I took this pic a couple of years ago. We live in an apt. so when it gets warm here, I let him sunbathe on the inside window ledge with some shade nearby in case he gets too warm. In the winter, I use UV light.

I could be wrong, but it looks like your turtle is in need of a good shed. Are those what we call growth rings on the scutes? Sorry, I'm learning too!

The picture was taken a couple of years ago. He sheds frequently.