Genus and species: Trachemys s. elegans. NOT FOR SALE IN INDIANA These red ear turtle shells are often used to make medicine bags, talking sticks, and other craft projects. They come in a range of patterns. These turtles are not endangered. We are frequently asked where the turtle shells come from and how they are obtained. The smaller shells (everything from hatchlings to turtles that are 6” to 7” long) generally come for turtle farms. They are typically ones that died at the farm from natural causes. The farm saves them for the woman who cleans them for us and then we sell them. The larger red ear turtle shells come from turtles that are typically trapped in the wild and the meat is sold as a delicacy. The turtles are not killed just for their shells.