Slow and steady Sliders

 When it's the most natural thing to do, no awkwardness, no self-consciousness.

But it does look like it's going to be a long afternoon for this pair of Red-eared Sliders.

As it's not so common to come across this scene despite the healthy population of Sliders here, I tried not to be too intrusive as I circled round them for record shots.

These turtles may be used to people walking about but they will disappear into the water immediately if anyone approaches too close when they are basking in the sun.

However, according to the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (extract FB, 8 July 2019):

Red-Eared Slider (invasive sp.) 

Red-eard (sic) sliders are a very popular aquatic pets. They’re easily found in pet shops and are usually sold at a very low price. While they may seem cute because of their small size, these turtles are highly invasive!

They’re listed as one of the worlds top 100 worst invasive species. They compete aggressively with our native turtle species for food and other resources. Most of the Red-eared sliders are hybrids, which means they’re more aggressive (with longer claws), highly adaptable to their surrounding environment and they eat almost everything. This leaves our gentle native turtles no chance of survival.

Please do not buy Red-eared sliders as pets. If you already have one, please do not release them into any pond or lakes or rivers. Instead, give them up to other family members or friends. Whatever you do, DO NOT release them into the wild.