Will leaches harm fledgling yellow bellied sliders?

Leeches generally do not pose a significant threat to fledgling yellow-bellied sliders. While leeches are parasitic and can attach to turtles, they typically target larger, slower-moving animals. Young sliders are more agile and may avoid leech infestations. However, if leeches are present in large numbers, they could potentially cause stress or minor irritation to the turtles.