Red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) are a species of freshwater turtle native to the Mississippi River valley in the United States. They have been introduced to many other parts of the world, including California, where they have become an invasive species.

Red-eared sliders are a threat to California's native turtles because they:

* Compete with native turtles for food and habitat.

* Transmit diseases to native turtles.

* Hybridize with native turtles, which can lead to the loss of genetic diversity.

Red-eared sliders are very adaptable and can survive in a variety of habitats, including ponds, lakes, rivers, and marshes. They are also very prolific breeders, and can produce up to 25 eggs per clutch. This has allowed them to spread rapidly throughout California and other parts of the world.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) considers red-eared sliders to be a "high-priority invasive species". The CDFW is working to control the spread of red-eared sliders in California by:

* Educating the public about the dangers of releasing pets into the wild.

* Working with other agencies to remove red-eared sliders from California's waterways.

* Conducting research to find new ways to control the spread of red-eared sliders.

Red-eared sliders are a serious threat to California's native turtles. The CDFW is working hard to control the spread of this invasive species, but it is a difficult challenge. With the help of the public, we can help protect California's native turtles from this devastating threat.