Turtles are an ancient group of reptiles that developed when the dinosaurs
were still alive at their time. The turtle is known as a slow-moving animal, and
indeed certain land turtles are quite slow.
Turtles are found in most parts
of the world, except in the coldest regions. Turtles have changed little in appearance
since their origin some 200 million years ago. A hard shell surrounds the turtle's
body, protecting its vital organs like a suit of armor. Turtles are toothless.
They tear apart food with their beaks.
Turtles eat living or dead plant
and animal matter. Some turtles are kept as pets, but the sale of small ones is
illegal in the United States. In many regions of the world, people eat turtle
meat and eggs. In addition, turtle populations have decreased worldwide as their
environments have changed or been destroyed.
